During colder months at New Hampshire’s Mount Washington Observatory, team members measure surrounding snow depths every six hours and report their findings to the National Weather Service and the Mount Washington Avalanche Center. This past March, a pair of interns were conducting these routine measurements when they noticed something unusual.

There appeared to be a tiny animal poking out from the bright white flakes.

owl on bench Mount Washington Observatory

“[There was] a small owl shivering in the snow,” a representative from the observatory told The Dodo. “Its eyes were frozen shut, and it was icing up in snowy, foggy and windy conditions.”

owl covered in snow Mount Washington Observatory

The interns were worried for the little owl. They carefully plucked her from the snowbank and brought her inside. In need of expert assistance, they consulted a volunteer who’s also a birding enthusiast. The volunteer moved the owl into a cat carrier for the time being, then she called New Hampshire Fish and Game for advice.

owl in carrier Mount Washington Observatory

Later that day, New Hampshire State Parks staff members brought the owl down the mountain to the fish and game base, where animal experts examined her for injuries.

Experts identified the bird as a northern saw-whet owl, a small breed known for their striking yellow eyes and oversized heads.

owl with yellow eyes Mount Washington Observatory

Rescuers helped the bird warm up. Free from the snow, she opened her eyes and shook the water off of her fluffy feathers. Experts were pleased to find the bird was in good health — just a bit cold — and they soon released her back into the surrounding wilderness.

little brown owl Mount Washington Observatory

Everyone involved is glad that this bird’s story turned out to have such a happy ending.

“We hope our Northern Saw-Whet owl friend lives a long and healthy life,” the observatory wrote in an Instagram post.

To help support Mount Washington Observatory’s work in advancing weather and climate research and improving weather safety, you can make a donation here.No One Knew Why This Owl Wouldn't Fly — Until Rescuers Looked Into His EyesNo One Knew Why This Owl Wouldn’t Fly — Until Rescuers Looked Into His Eyes“This is not typical owl behavior …”