BELÉM, BRAZIL - A white owl (Tyto furcata), popularly known as “rasga-mortalha,” was rescued on Wednesday morning (8) by the Environmental Police after becoming trapped inside a residence in the municipality of Santarém, in Pará state. The capture was carried out safely, without causing injury to the animal.

Authorities warn that the species (Tyto furcata) is often killed due to myths linking its call to bad omens. Police stress that such beliefs are unfounded and harmful to local wildlife.

In fact, the owl is a natural ally to humans in pest control. According to environmental authorities, a breeding pair of the species can consume up to 3,700 rodents and more than 5,800 insects over the course of a year.

After undergoing a physical assessment that confirmed it was in good condition, the bird was released into a forested area at the Unama Zoo (Zoounama).

Amazon Agency