Ventura firefighters rescue owl trapped in backyard pool

Firefighters from the Ventura Fire Department rescued an owl that became stranded in a backyard swimming pool during a nighttime hunt. Using a pool leaf skimmer, responders coaxed the soaked bird toward the edge of the pool and onto dry grass.

While the specific species of the owl has not been identified, the bird appeared to have no obvious major injuries following the rescue. The animal was taken to the Ojai Raptor Center for treatment.

Wildlife experts suggest that owls may fall into pools while chasing prey like frogs or rodents, often deceived by the reflective surface of the water which can mimic open ground. Decorative pool lighting can also attract insects, drawing owls into potentially dangerous hunting grounds.