VIRGINIA (LOOTPRESS) – Just days before Christmas, a local family received an unexpected holiday guest with wings and wisdom. A majestic Barred Owl made a dramatic entrance by swooping down their chimney and perching atop their Christmas tree—knocking over the traditional star to claim the spotlight for itself.
The family, both startled and awestruck, quickly realized their new “ornament” wasn’t a part of their holiday decor. Instead, it was a wild visitor with impeccable timing. The owl’s calm and regal presence transformed their festive centerpiece into a scene straight out of a holiday storybook.
Enter Sgt. Murray, who responded to the family’s call for help. With gentle hands and care, he safely captured the feathered trespasser and released it back into the wild, ensuring the owl could return to its natural habitat in time for its own seasonal celebrations.
The unusual encounter came with a friendly reminder: as winter sets in, curious critters often seek warmth and shelter in homes. Experts urge residents to keep chimneys capped and secure to prevent such unexpected visits.
As for the family, they’ll likely never look at their Christmas tree the same way again. For one magical moment, their home hosted a wild wonder of the season—proof that nature has a way of delivering holiday surprises.
