Probably the best part of working with Wild and Free is being present at the release of a rehabilitated critter back into the wild.  On January 10, 2009 we were able to release a magnificent Great Horned Owl that had been found by the side of the road, brought to W&F and now was ready to be released by the person that rescued the owl.  Once the rehabilitation has progressed to the point that a bird can start practicing flying again it is moved to the W&F building into a room that's big enough for short flights.

Dr Katie caught the owl and brought it outside.  She gave a short lecture to some children that were attending the release.

Here's Dr Katie giving some instructions about handling the owl to the person who will do the actual release.  If you'll notice the size of the owls talons you can understand the need for handling instructions.

The release is done by gently throwing the owl into the air.

With a few powerful flaps of its wings the owl gains altitude rapidly.

And away it goes, once again Wild and Free!

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