Baby owls are falling from Redondo Beach palm trees — here’s what to do if you see one

If you’re strolling through the Los Angeles neighborhood Redondo Beach and suddenly spot a fluffy baby owl hopping or sitting on the ground, resist the urge to help it. Local animal services officials are urging residents to leave the young owls alone and give them space.

“If you see owl fledglings on the ground, don’t worry and don’t touch!” a Facebook message from the Redondo Beach Police Department warned, continuing that “these little ones are likely just learning to fly and their parents are probably nearby keeping an eye on them. If you find an owl fledgling on the ground.”

The reason? Redondo Beach‘s abundance of tall palm trees makes it a prime nesting spot for owls, particularly species like great horned owls and barn owls.

As the owlets, or fledglings, grow and begin learning to fly or “branch out,” it’s completely normal for them to tumble out of their nests in the palms and briefly end up on the ground.

Wildlife experts state that interfering with healthy baby owls can do more harm than good — it’s part of their natural development process, much like a toddler learning to walk.

Detective Evalo of the Redondo Beach Police Department noted in the PSA video that while there is a proliferation of palm trees in the area, they do not make great homes for owls because there are no branches for them to start learning how to fly.

“So you’ll find that at this age, these owls will actually fall to the ground, and that’s where they’ll do all their learning. But don’t worry, their parents are still taking care of them,” the detective said as held a baby owl that had been found at the base of a palm tree.

The post went on to advise the general public to not approach or try to touch a fallen bird.

Here’s what to do if you encounter one of the fallen feathered flyers:

Unless it’s in imminent danger, like if there is a dog approaching or oncoming traffic, do not approach, touch or pick it up. Handling the owl can stress the bird and potentially expose you to risks such as sharp talons and beaks.

Instead, observe quietly from afar. In most cases, the owl parents will continue providing food and the owlet will eventually take flight.

Only intervene if the owl appears clearly injured, e.g., bleeding, unable to stand, or in danger. In that case, contact Redondo Beach Animal Services or a local wildlife rehabilitation center for guidance.

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