A Splash Out of Luck: Lost Owl Takes a Dip in Lake Powell
Hikers venturing through a scenic canyon near Lake Powell stumbled upon a sight that left them wide-eyed and bewildered: a swimming owl. While owls are masters of the night sky, they're decidedly not built for aquatic adventures

This particular owl's predicament was a rare and potentially perilous one. Unlike ducks or geese, owls lack waterproof feathers. They also have limited maneuverability in the water, making them vulnerable predators and hindering their ability to take flight. In short, this little owl was likely fighting for its life.

Experts at the National Audubon Society believe the owl in question was a young great horned owl, just starting to explore its surroundings. "My guess is it probably fell out of the nest," explained Geoff LeBaron, a spokesperson for the organization. "Great horned owls often nest on ledges on cliffs..."

LeBaron offered a glimmer of hope. "This bird is young enough that its parents are likely still caring for it," he said. "Hopefully, once the hikers moved on, the bird managed to dry off and reunite with its family."

While the owl's fate remains unknown, its story serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of nature. Even for creatures as magnificent as owls, a single misstep can lead to a precarious situation. Let's hope this little adventurer managed to find its way back home, its feathers dry and its spirit undeterred.