A routine day at an antique shop in upstate New York turned into an unusual wildlife encounter after a live owl was mistaken for a decorative display and nearly sold to a customer.
The surprising moment of the live owl unfolded at a small antique store in East Durham, a hamlet about 127 miles north of Manhattan. Shoppers browsing shelves filled with vintage collectibles noticed what appeared to be a lifelike owl sitting quietly beside a chicken-shaped cookie jar. At first glance, the bird seemed like another decorative item placed among the store’s merchandise.
Customers initially admired the figure because of its detailed appearance. The owl remained perfectly still, giving the impression it was a carefully crafted ornament. After a closer look, however, several shoppers began to suspect that the figure might actually be real.
Concerned customers notified store employees, who quickly realized the bird could indeed be alive. Authorities were contacted soon after to investigate the unexpected visitor resting among the antiques.
Wildlife officers remove the unexpected guest
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the incident took place on Feb. 21. Environmental conservation police officers responded to the call and arrived at the shop shortly afterward.
Inside the store, officers found a small brown-and-white owl perched quietly on a shelf with its eyes closed. The bird appeared calm and undisturbed despite the activity around it. Officers carefully approached and gently picked up the owl without causing it distress.
The owl was carried outside and released near a wooded area close to the store. Once outside, the bird quickly spread its wings and flew to a nearby tree, disappearing into the branches within seconds.
Wildlife officials later confirmed the bird was an eastern screech owl, a common species found throughout much of eastern North America. It remains unclear how the owl managed to enter the store. Authorities said they later contacted the shop’s owners by email to inform them about the unusual situation.
A small but adaptable bird of prey
Eastern screech owls are relatively small raptors. Most grow between 6 and 10 inches in length and have a wingspan ranging from about 19 to 24 inches. Their feathers typically appear gray or reddish-brown, while their bright yellow eyes are one of their most recognizable features.
The species is primarily nocturnal, meaning it hunts and moves mostly at night. During daylight hours, these owls often rest in quiet, hidden locations such as tree cavities or dense foliage, where their natural camouflage helps them remain unnoticed.
Eastern screech owls are known for their adaptability. They live in forests, farmland, city parks, and suburban neighborhoods. Their diet usually includes insects, mice, frogs, and small birds.
Wildlife officers said the owl appeared healthy and quickly returned to its natural environment after release.