From Tularosa, N.M.: A young great horned owl has been released back into the wild after a lengthy rehabilitation period. The owl, named Hootie, was found as a helpless owlette under a pine tree after falling from her nest during a violent windstorm. Only Hootie survived the fall. After months of care, she is now flying free, and her first flight was an emotional moment for those who witnessed it. Some people cried, while others cheered as Hootie took to the air with her powerful wings.

Further details about Hootie's story are available from the source.

Hootie's release was a successful one, with the owl even posing for pictures in a nearby tree after her first flight.