On a chilly Tuesday morning, Annabell Whelan found herself caring for an unexpected overnight guest—a snowy owl she had rescued from a perilous encounter. This incident followed another rescue earlier in the day when Whelan saved an injured great gray owl. Both events took place in Minnesota, where Whelan, a biology and environmental science graduate, works at Lake Superior Zoo. The owls were eventually transported to specialized rehabilitation centers, highlighting the importance of quick action and compassionate care for wildlife.
The Extraordinary Day of Animal Rescue
In the early hours of Monday, during a crisp autumn day in Duluth, Minnesota, 22-year-old Annabell Whelan was out with her boyfriend’s family when she encountered a distressing scene. A snowy owl had collided with a vehicle, leaving it stranded on the car grille. Although the car owner had already contacted animal rescue services, the local organization was closed for the evening. Without hesitation, Whelan stepped forward to help.
Earlier that same day, further north in Two Harbors, Minnesota, Whelan had already assisted another injured bird—a great gray owl. Experts from Wildwoods, a wildlife rehabilitation center in Duluth, guided her on how to safely handle the bird. After calming the owl, she carefully wrapped it in a blanket and transported it to Wildwoods, where it was later sent to the University of Minnesota’s Raptor Center in St. Paul for further treatment.
Hours later, Whelan faced a more challenging situation with the snowy owl. Recognizing the severity of its injuries, she brought the bird home, providing it with a quiet and safe environment for the night. She named the owl "Nowl," a playful twist on "noel." Despite concerns about the owl’s survival, Nowl showed signs of improvement by morning, allowing Whelan to breathe a sigh of relief as she delivered the bird to Wildwoods for professional care.
Wildwoods later reported that Nowl had sustained significant injuries but was receiving necessary medical attention. They emphasized the importance of public awareness and immediate action when encountering injured wildlife, urging people to slow down, stay alert, and seek professional assistance promptly.
This extraordinary day underscored the vital role individuals can play in wildlife conservation and the significance of compassionate intervention. Whelan’s actions serve as a reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a profound difference in the lives of animals in need. Her experience also highlights the critical work of wildlife rehabilitation centers and the dedication of those who tirelessly work to protect and heal our natural world.