Owl rescued after wandering inside house in Pateros

An owl was rescued by authorities after it wandered inside a house in Pateros.

According to Kuya Kim's report on "24 Oras," Thursday, the owl was found by Lavynia Michael on December 6 after she got home.

She took a video of the bird, which was first perched on the headboard of the bed and later flew to other parts of the house.

"Nakikipagtitigan na lang siya sa 'kin. Nakaka-intimidate siya kasi nakatitig lang siyang ganun na any time na parang puwede ka niyang dapuan or liparan," she said.

Lavynia asked for help from authorities to handle the owl. A staff from the barangay and the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office went to her house to capture the animal.

The owl was placed in a cage and later taken to an office of the Department of Natural Environment and Natural Resources for veterinary consultation.

Jay Fidelino, a wildlife biologist, identified the bird as a Philippine scops owl (Otus megalotis), a species endemic to Luzon and nearby small islands.

Should anyone find an owl or any bird inside their house, he advised to open all windows and doors where they can exit. It would also help to turn off lights and avoid surprising the animal.

"Hindi ko ire-recommend na directly i-handle siya kung hindi expert kasi puwedeng ma-injure either 'yung hayop or 'yung taong magta-try humawak kasi sharp 'yung talons," he said.

"Merong tao sa any nearby na DENR office na mas well-equipped or well-trained na mag-handle ng wildlife so 'yun naman 'yung mas OK na gawin." —MGP, GMA Integrated News