![Rocky the Christmas Owl Released Into the Wild [Video]](http://townsquare.media/site/81/files/2020/11/Rocky-perching.jpg?w=980&q=75)
Rocky the Christmas Owl Released Into the Wild [Video]
The super cute saw-whet owl that was found perched inside the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree has become a bit of a cult hero over the last week a so. While most didn't give a hoot about the actual tree, 'owl' be willing to bet you fell hard for the furry little fella seen in photos peering out of the box he was placed in or wrapped in the little blanket. The Wildlife experts at Ravensbeard Wildlife Center in Saugerties were summoned after the adorable owl appeared to be weakened and perhaps dehydrated from the 3-day jaunt from Oneonta to NYC.
While nursing the owl back to health, experts a the Ravensbeard Wildlife Center in Saugerties determined that the furry little critter is actually a girl, so she's since been renamed and now goes by "Rocky."
Once Rocky was at full strength, a beautiful video was shown of her ascension back into the wild. Before her release, Ravensbeard posted this message on their Facebook assuring her adoring fans that she was ready to take flight and more importantly, do so safely.
"It happened at sunset so that she can find safe cover by nightfall. We have found just the right quiet cluster of conifers to give her the safety she needs. #RockefellerOwl" -Ravensbeard Wildlife
Later, they posted that "Rocky's release was a success! She is a tough little bird and we're happy to see her back in her natural habitat."
The video is actually quite moving. You can see the true bond between human and bird and at first, Rocky is a little bit hesitant to spread her wings but moments later, she takes flight.
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