CONSERVE

Audubon member, Jean Norman, was visiting her son and his family in Washington, DC last spring.

They live on the edge of Rock Creek Park which is a favorite birding area for Washingtonians.

There had been a storm the night before and there were leaves and limbs that had blown around.  On the edge of the trail they discovered a downed nest with three baby Barred Owls sitting in it.

They boxed it up and took it to the wildlife rescue office.  They were asked to go with them and show them exactly where they found it bringing all kinds of equipment including a bucket truck.

Soon the nest and babies were situated on a safe platform.  Then they did the most brilliant thing (at least I think so).

They played a recording of the voices of distressed baby Barred Owls. The parents answered immediately.

The next morning the Normans quietly returned and all five birds were right at home above the trail.

By Ann Forster