Casper the Great Horned Owl: A Natural Mother Who Raised 500+ Rescued Owlets

Meet Casper, the remarkable great‑horned owl who captured international attention on CBC News for nurturing more than 500 orphaned owlets at the Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society in Delta, British Columbia.

Casper arrived at the facility in 1999 after being trapped—an incident that left her talons damaged and prevented her from surviving in the wild. Rather than becoming a victim of that setback, she turned into a devoted foster parent, teaching fledglings how to hunt, fly, and stay wary of humans. Her “edge,” as a rehab worker describes it, gives each baby a fighting chance at life in the wild.

The video showcases Casper in her custom enclosure, where she feeds and trains her charges. Her dedication exemplifies the profound bond that can exist between a caregiver and the animals they protect.

Typical Habitats of the Great Horned Owl

Great horned owls are one of North America’s most widespread and adaptable raptors. They thrive in forests, wetlands, suburban backyards, and even city parks. Unlike many birds, they do not build their own nests; instead, they repurpose abandoned tree cavities, roost in trees, or find shelter in human‑made structures. Once settled, they remain in the same territory year‑round.

They’re most audible at dusk, when they emerge to hunt, and easiest to spot in winter when foliage thins. Human‑induced trauma—poisoning, vehicle collisions, or entanglement—often leads owls to wildlife rehabilitation centers. If you’re eager to observe these magnificent birds, look for local wildlife facilities that welcome visitors. Curious for more owl lore? Check out 19 of the cutest owls to ever owl and this great horned owl that hoots at a golden retriever friend.