An Eastern screech owl found stranded in the road at Onemo in early December is now flying free. Jan Towne found the small owl sitting in the road, unable to fly, and rescued it from the stream of traffic. Licensed rehabber Julie Wobig of Eastern Virginia Wildlife Rescue in Hampton Roads picked up the bird, inspected and worked with it, and one week later brought it back to be released at the same spot where it was found. Audubon describes it as a robin-sized nightbird. Towne did the honors on Dec. 20, and the beautiful bird, usually 7 to 9 inches in length, took flight when released from its enclosure. David Yeager, who works with Wobig, took the photos; Missy Johnson made a video of the release, which can be seen by clicking on the QR code.

PHOTO BY DAVID YEAGEREastern screech owl inspected after its rescue. PHOTO BY DAVID YEAGERScreech owl is alert and apparently ready to fly.

PHOTO BY DAVID YEAGERThe owl tests its wings. PHOTO BY DAVID YEAGERThe screech owl flies free. VIDEO BY ...