AUSTIN, Texas — The second owlet of Athena, the great horned owl nesting at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, has died.
The center shared the update on Sunday morning, saying the second of Athena’s owlets died overnight, two days after her first owlet died.
“Despite Athena’s efforts over the past several days, the owlet did not survive,” the Wildflower Center said on social media. “While the exact cause is unknown, a variety of natural factors can affect survival for owlets, including food availability.”
The Wildflower Center had been livestreaming Athena and her owlets for several weeks. The center shared that they decided to end the livestream after her second owlet died.
Athena has nested at the center for years, her two owlets this year hatching on April 8 and 10.
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The center said that Athena was not in her nest on Sunday, but was seen in nearby trees.
“Moments like this happen in the wild, even for experienced owl parents,” the center said.
The Wildflower Center remains hopeful that Athena will nest with them again next year.
“We’re thankful to have shared this time with Athena and her owlets, and for everyone who has followed along,” the center said.
Athena’s mate, a male great horned owl, has not been seen in the livestream recently, but the center says that this behavior is normal. They said they do not have confirmed information of his status, but will share updates when they are able.