Tiny screech owl extracted from chimney by nature center staff in holiday rescue

Wildlife specialists from Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown were called to a home recently after residents heard scratching and screeching coming from their chimney, leading to the discovery of a tiny screech owl that had become stuck in the flue.

The confused and frightened bird had slipped down the flue through the chimney opening and couldn’t escape. The rescue team used special tools to gently extract the small owl and bring it to safety.

After a quick examination by the rescue team on site, the owl was carried outside and released among the trees.

Sweetbriar shared the story of the special rescue in a short Instagram video set to a song inspired by the Clement-Clarke Moore poem “A Visit From Saint Nicholas,” offering a glimpse into the work performed year-round by the nature center—even on holidays. 

“Stories like this one are why Sweetbriar exists,” said Sweetbriar executive director Marie Smith in a statement released today. “Wildlife emergencies don’t pause for holidays, cold nights, or late hours—and neither do we.”

To learn more about Sweetbriar Nature Center and offer support, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org.