The Schenley Park Owlet Returns Home

  The Schenley Park Owlet: A Tale of Rescue, Recovery, and Reunion

In the heart of Pittsburgh’s Schenley Park, a young Great Horned Owlet’s journey took an unexpected turn when she tumbled 100 feet from her nest on the Panther Hollow Bridge. Discovered on the ground, the nestling, nicknamed Muppet, was fortunate to have sustained only minor injuries, primarily to her beak. Thanks to the quick actions of rescuer Sarah Mateskovich and the dedication of Tamarack Wildlife Center (TWC) volunteers, she was transported for medical evaluation and care.

A Delicate Recovery

When a nestling raptor is admitted to TWC, the first priority is medical stabilization. Since young raptors have significant mass and often fall from great heights, fractures, and internal injuries are common concerns. Fortunately, X-rays and a physical exam confirmed that this little owlet had no major injuries.

Throughout Muppet’s rehabilitation, she was cared for in a way that prevented imprinting on humans. This critical aspect of wildlife rehabilitation ensures that she retained her natural behaviors and instincts, vital for her eventual return to the wild. Since Great Horned Owls are among the earliest nesters in the region, typically incubating eggs from late January to late March, this young owl had hatched in early February—earlier than most. Given the hazardous location of her nest, it was determined that returning her directly was too risky, prompting efforts to find a safe alternative.

Returning to the Wild

With her medical care complete, a collaborative effort was launched to reunite Muppet with her family in Schenley Park. The Pittsburgh City Parks Director, Kathryn Vargas, along with the City Park Forestry Department and Park Rangers, joined forces with TWC rehabilitators and volunteers to install an artificial nest near the father owl’s roost tree. A bucket truck was used to secure the nest, which was within sight of the original bridge nest, ensuring that the family could locate the young owl.

At six weeks old, Muppet was able to thermoregulate, meaning she no longer required incubation. As soon as she was placed in the artificial nest, the next stage of her journey began. Monitoring with a game camera provided reassurance that her parents would recognize her calls and respond by bringing food. At this stage, Great Horned Owlets start “branching,” meaning they leave the nest to explore their surroundings, perching on nearby branches before returning to rest. Over the next few weeks, she would practice hopping, flapping, and making short flights before fully mastering the skies around nine weeks old.

Muppet on the Move

This resilient young owl wasted no time embracing her natural instincts. After spending her first night back in the artificial nest, she quickly began exploring. On day two, she perched confidently on a branch near the nest. By day three, she had made her way to the ground, eventually climbing up a steep embankment and tucking herself into a safe crevice.

TWC rehabilitation staff conducted a welfare check and found her alert and upright. Volunteers continued to monitor her progress, and within days, she had climbed 30 feet high into a tree, perching just as a young Great Horned Owl should. At night, her calls could be heard echoing through the park as she communicated with her parents, who located her by sound to deliver meals.

Muppet has shown remarkable adaptability and determination, even making her way closer to her sibling, who remains in the original nest. Muppet has been observed flying short distances, and by nine weeks of age, she should be flying regularly. This progression from nestling to adult may seem quick, but her journey with her parents is far from over. Great Horned Owls spend months teaching their young critical survival skills, and Muppet will remain under their care through the summer. By September or October, she will be encouraged to disperse and begin her independent life in the wild.

A Community Effort

This story of resilience and teamwork highlights the dedication of the individuals and organizations who work tirelessly to protect and rehabilitate wildlife. From the initial rescue to the collaborative efforts of city officials, park staff, and TWC volunteers, Muppet’s journey is a testament to what is possible when people come together to support wildlife conservation.

For those visiting Schenley Park, giving the owl family privacy and space will help ensure their continued success. Thanks to the generosity of supporters and the dedication of wildlife professionals, Muppet’s story is one of hope, perseverance, and the incredible power of nature to heal and thrive.