Having a hoot in the vineyard

Photo: Contributed - Glenn Perkins

When Gary Perkins' friend needed help to rescue a trapped owl, the West Kelowna resident didn't hesitate.

During the last week of October, Don Turk was walking his dog along side a West Kelowna vineyard when he spotted an owl tangled in some netting.

"Don came and talked to me and I agreed to help him. We went up (to where the owl was) and we covered him with a towel and cut him loose," says Perkins.

The owl was very calm according to Perkins, and did not scratch or struggle as the men freed the bird.

"Actually when we covered him with the towel, he went so quiet there I thought he was dead," Perkins explained.

Once the owl was free, it stood and stared at the men long enough for them to snap a picture, before flying off.

"He seemed healthy enough to fly away, but was probably hungry and tired. I don't know how long he had been there."

Later in the day the men checked back at the spot where they had found the owl to see if it was still there, but it had moved along.

Perkins says he has never touched an owl before, but was glad he could help the little guy - or girl- out.