In a home in Lu Wan Village, Nansha, Guangzhou, a mother owl and her four recently hatched owlets have become a local sensation. These little ones peacefully sleep in a flower pot, remaining calm despite the noisy surroundings. The mother owl rests during the day and goes out to hunt at night, occasionally receiving water from the homeowners.
Mr. Liu discovered the owl family on April 20 when he noticed a bird lingering near his balcony, fixated on the eggs in the flower pot. After several days of observation, he confirmed that the eggs belonged to an owl and decided to let them hatch in peace. By May 8, the eggs had hatched into four adorable little owlets, round-headed and fluffy. Mr. Liu's colleagues, upon hearing the news, flocked to see the new arrivals.
Mr. Xie from the Guangzhou Zoo, after viewing photos, stated that this is a very rare occurrence. It is typically difficult to rear owls in captivity, and it is even more unusual for a mother owl to hatch and raise her young on her own. Mr. Xie speculated that these owlets might be from the species of small long-eared owls, which are generally nocturnal and fierce in the wild, making the mother’s gentle nature surprising. Regarding their future, Mr. Xie noted that it is uncertain whether these young owls will leave when they grow up or return to nest again.
The case of the owls settling in a residential area raises questions about the ecological environment in Nansha. Professor Wang from Sun Yat-sen University’s School of Life Sciences emphasized that assessing an area's ecological environment requires a comprehensive consideration of various factors. He reminded citizens that owls are a nationally protected species and should not be harmed or captured without permission; any necessary actions should involve forestry authorities.
Currently, two of the owlets have learned to fly, and the other two are expected to take flight soon, promising that they will soon soar freely in the blue sky.
