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Hoot for the Holidays

Updated 1:25 PM PDT, Mon, Jan 26, 2009

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Smokey, a great horned owl injured in the Sayre Fire, is expected to return to the wild by Christmas.

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A Great Horned owl rescued from the Sayre Fire by a firefighter makes is released into the wild...

The owl, named Smokey, was removed from an oxygen tank. Workers at Valley Wildlife Care monitored his breathing, and said all signs were normal.

The great horned owl was listed Friday in stable condition. He was given a 75-percent chance of survival.

The owl flew through a wall of flame during the Sayre Fire. A firefighter saw the bird and rescued him.

The nonprofit facility sent photos and a note.

"He is looking beautiful and we are hoping to release him back to the wild by Christmas time."

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First Published: Nov 25, 2008 11:57 AM PDT

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Cyrene Friday, Nov 28 at 11:19 AM FLAG COMMENT Smokey Joe the owl story has restored my trust in humanity during these hard times. A big thanks to all who helped in this rescue and recovery. Smokey I wish you a speedy recovery and a Magical Life!
Jackie Tuesday, Nov 25 at 3:46 PM FLAG COMMENT Valley Wildlife Care is a non-profit, volunteer organization, completely supported by donations. I gave them a donation and I hope some of you will too!
yanges Tuesday, Nov 25 at 3:27 PM FLAG COMMENT you cna tell Smokey is grateful for his rescue and rehab! Thanks to all who helped!!
Pamela Tuesday, Nov 25 at 2:53 PM FLAG COMMENT Aww! Funny, I wish I could hug that sweet little guy! Not sure he would care for that, though! Get better soon Smokey the Wonder-Owl! It's so heartening when people help animals in such a brave, unslefish manner. Thank you firefighters for your compassion, heart and bravery for humans & animals. Firefighters are my heroes!
Paula Tuesday, Nov 25 at 1:33 PM FLAG COMMENT Way to go, Smokey Joe. A heartful thanks to all who have taken care of you at Valley Wildlife Care. I'm cheering you on to a 100% recovery -- none of this 75% stuff. And thank you, Mr. Fireman, for being the hero who rescued Smokey Joe -- there is no doubt that this little fellow would not have made it if it weren't for you.