A Surprise Encounter in the New Forest

While driving towards Lepe at dusk and enjoying the New Forest wildlife, we spotted a Barn Owl sitting at the edge of the road. Unusually, it didn't fly away as we approached. Sensing something was wrong, we pulled over and quickly realised it was injured—likely struck by a car—with a visibly damaged wing. Though it managed to hop into the verge, it was in clear distress and posed a serious hazard to both itself and passing traffic on the narrow single-track road.

A Community Team Effort

With many visitors heading to Lepe to watch the Cowes fireworks, we knew HM Coastguard Lymington was patrolling the area. We contacted a team member on their personal number to see if they could assist.

The Coastguard team pulled together quickly, acquiring a secure box from the staff at The Lookout cafe at Lepe and coming straight to our location. By the time they arrived, the owl had suffered two more near-misses with cars and was trapped in a bramble-covered ditch. Using bright torches, heavy gloves, and PPE, the Coastguard crew carefully ventured into the ditch, rescued the owl, and placed it safely inside the box.

The Critical Work at Moyles Court Wildlife Rescue

We immediately contacted Moyles Court Wildlife Rescue, who guided us through the essential next steps—including noting the precise location for future repatriation—and asked us to bring the owl in directly.

Moyles Court is the only wildlife rescue facility within a 90-mile radius. Upon arrival, we met Mike, who was incredible. He gave us a close-up look at the owl and determined that while its right wing was broken, an X-ray would decide the exact path for recovery.

We learned that our owl was the 5th Barn Owl currently in their care, alongside 20 Tawny Owls. In total, they are currently caring for 32 birds of prey—including Buzzards, Kestrels, Red Kites, Tawny Owls, and Barn Owls—as well as countless other local animals, from swans, hares, foxes, and hedgehogs to injured deer (their most frequent callouts).

Why We Need Your Help

Moyles Court Wildlife Rescue relies entirely on dedicated volunteers and public donations to keep its doors open, costing roughly £150,000 a year to operate. Without them, we honestly don't know what we would have done that evening.

Every single donation goes directly toward medical care, rehabilitation, and feeding the hundreds of wild animals that pass through their doors each year, giving creatures like our Barn Owl a second chance at returning to the wild.

Can you help us make a difference?

£10 helps cover the cost of daily meals for recovering raptors.

£25 contributes toward essential medications and X-rays.

£50+ helps keep this vital 24/7 rescue service running for our local wildlife.

Thank you so much for reading, sharing, and supporting this incredible charity!.