From Audubon Center for Birds of Prey

Decorating our homes for Halloween is a fun tradition, but here’s an important reminder to keep our decor bird- d wildlife-friendly. Last week, this Barred Owl found itself stuck in a plastic bat skeleton hung in a tree. Thankfully, the homeowner noticed and contacted animal control to help before it was too late. Our Raptor injury to the neck, and quickly began treatment to stabilize this owl and get it released back to the wild.

There are many kinds of decorations that we know to be harmful: artificial spider webs, for example, can ensnare birds. But this bat skeleton may not be such an obvious danger. If you do choose to hang holiday decorations, consider placement away from areas that birds frequent, and make a point to check your decor daily for any trapped animals.