Rescued Eurasian eagle owl soars again on International Bird Day

(Beijing, China-April 1, 2025) The release of a nationally-protected Eurasian eagle owl today, International Bird Day, highlights the collective conservation achievements of rescuers, rehabilitators, and protection efforts across China. The owl is Beijing’s largest owl species and was released back into the wild at nightfall in a Beijing suburb. 

The owl was first admitted to IFAW’s Beijing Raptor Rescue Center (BRRC) on March 8. According to the rescuer Mr. Chen Jingming, it was rescued at Houhai Lake, a cultural landmark in Central Beijing. 

Mr.Chen said: “That morning, a large group of crows near the Houhai Lake’s water surface were attacking a large bird, forcing it into the water. Another citizen and I used a broom to rescue it and contacted the police.” 

The owl was promptly sent to BRRC for treatment, where specialist avian rehabilitators conducted comprehensive examinations, including blood checks, injury assessments and weighing amongst others. 

IFAW senior rehabilitator Zhou Lei explained: "Initial examination revealed the owl was lethargic with elevated white blood cells. Later, it developed further symptoms including swelling in the talons and feet, discoloration in the muscles of its legs and wings, and dehydration from lack of eating. We provided targeted medication and treatment."  

After over two weeks of care, the owl’s blood test results and muscle color returned to normal, and it began eating voluntarily – passing the pre-release health assessment. 

As apex predators, raptors play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance, particularly in controlling rodent populations. BRRC statistics show that 26% of admitted raptors suffer from accidental injuries, often due to collisions with buildings or adverse weather during migration. 

“Over BRRC's 24-year history, we've witnessed growing public awareness of bird protection, thanks to China's ecological civilization initiatives,” said Angella Zheng, BRRC Manager. “These efforts safeguard bird diversity and promote broader biodiversity and environmental protection, advancing the goal of a beautiful China." 

ENDS 

Visual editors can download photo and video with IFAW’s permission here: https://spaces.hightail.com/space/tj6BygHbWt 

For more information, images, or to arrange interviews please contact: 

Sabrina Zhang,
Senior Communications Manage with IFAW China 
m: +86 13911116927 
e: qzhang@ifaw.org