Casper, a great horned owl at the Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society in Delta, has been a devoted foster mom for over 26 years, caring for more than 500 owlets. Known for her strong maternal instincts and aversion to humans, Casper is currently nurturing four fledglings rescued from various situations. Under the guidance of manager Rob Hope, Casper is teaching the fledglings essential survival skills such as flying, hunting prey, and avoiding human contact.
Hope emphasized the importance of Casper’s influence on the young owlets, as they observe, follow, and imitate her behaviors, preparing them for a successful release into the wild. The society specializes in rescuing and rehabilitating raptors like eagles, falcons, and owls. Casper herself was rescued in 1999 after being caught in a leg-hold trap in Prince George, leading to missing talons that would hinder her hunting abilities in nature.
Despite her physical limitations, Casper’s nurturing nature shone through when she interacted with a baby owlet for the first time, displaying immediate caregiving instincts. Hope expressed admiration for Casper’s dedication as a surrogate mother and hopes for her continued well-being in the years to come. The society values Casper’s natural parenting skills, allowing volunteers to limit direct contact with the fledglings, enabling Casper to lead the upbringing process.
Estimated to be in her late 20s, Casper still has many years ahead according to the Northwest Wildlife Preservation Society. Great horned owls like Casper can live well into their 30s in captivity. As the matriarch of the group, Casper will continue to raise her current fledglings for another month before they are ready to move on.