On Nov. 4 Sunday evening, a resident Rizz Eza saw an owlet struggling on the pavement at the void deck of her HDB block.

Fearing that the owl might be attacked by neighbourhood cats, she reached out to the online nature community for help after contacting Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres).

A bird enthusiast, Ted Ng, responded to that post, swiftly came to check on the owl's injuries and update Acres on its condition.

Injured from collision

The injured spotted wood owl is nationally endangered although it has been spotted more frequently in recent years.

Ted shared that the owl was likely to have knocked onto the residential window glass and fallen onto the pavement upon checking.

Nocturnal birds like this owl are drawn to lighted windows at times.

As a result of the incident, this 'greenhorn' (inexperienced) baby owl suffered some leg injuries and was slightly drenched from the light drizzle.

Ted used a piece of cloth to cover the head of the owl so as to keep it calm, just in case the owl might be anxious in a foreign environment.

He also emphasised that it is best to not touch the bird if one doesn't have the necessary experience.

Don't underestimate this adorable little one as its beak and talons are sharp enough to tear flesh. 

The spotted wood owl rested till the Acres wildlife rescue team came by to collect and send it to Jurong Bird Park for treatment.

What to do if you meet an injured bird?

Ted also shared some simple tips if anyone ever encounters an injured bird in Nature Society (Singapore) Facebook group.

Here's an advisory from Acres if you ever meet a bird that needs help:

1. Should members of public sight a wild animal in distress, call the 24-hours ACRES hotline at 97837782 or call the AVA.

2. Never pet or stroke the animal. Wild animals, especially birds are sensitive to stress and petting them may cause them more stress.

3. Do not attempt to handle or contain large raptors like owls unless we advise you too. They have powerful talons and beaks. Wait for us to advise you on what to do next.

4. Do not attempt to feed or give water to the animal.

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All photos from Ted Ng