Tawny owl trapped in roof rack for 10 miles

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-coventry-warwickshire-31145028

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A tawny owl flew into the path of a car and became trapped after getting its head stuck in the roof rack of the vehicle.

The driver had travelled 10 miles from Sutton Coldfield to Dordon, north Warwickshire, at 50mph before it was discovered.

Birch, named after the business park where it was found, was suffering from concussion.

Warwickshire Wildlife Sanctuary said it had no serious injuries.

'Clung on'

It is believed Birch, who is about one year old, flew into the path of the car. The driver did not realise until he stopped at the Birch Coppice Industrial Estate.

"The owl has been flying pretty low and he's gone into the railings of the vehicle," said Geoff Grewcock, from the Nuneaton-based sanctuary.

"He has probably just clung on for dear life.

"It's pretty common behaviour for these birds. Tawny owls are known for it - they fly into anything. They are so awkward."

He added: "He is suffering from concussion - that's why his eyes are closing.

"We are going to try to get some fluids down him and give him a rest."

Mr Grewcock said he expected it would take Birch about 48 hours to recover fully, after which it could be released back into the wild.