Sierra Vista Fire Department assistant engine operator rescues baby owl from wildfire

TUCSON, Ariz. (KOLD News 13) - A baby owl is recovering after he was rescued during the San Rafael Fire by an assistant fire engine operator from the Sierra Vista Fire Department.

According to officials at the Coronado National Forest, Jason Shafer was cleaning up debris when he saw a large clump of oak trees burning miles away.

Shafer and his partner went to the scene to assess the area when they saw a small owl poking out from a tree. The owl tried to fly away but was unable to and it fell into a pile of hot ash and debris.

Shafer scooped up the owl and put him in a box before reporting the discovery.

Shortly afterward, the owl was taken to a nearby veterinarian. As of Thursday evening, wildlife officials said the owl was drinking and eating.

Though the feathers at the tips of his wings melted in the fire, he is expected to fully recover thanks to Shafer’s actions.