Owl swoops into family’s home and replaces the star atop their Christmas tree

A family got an early gift above their Christmas tree when an owl replaced their star ornament. (Source: Animal Welfare League of Arlington/ Instagram)
Published: Dec. 21, 2024 at 10:39 AM HST
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ARLINGTON, Va. (CNN) - A Virginia family got an early gift above their Christmas tree when an owl replaced their star ornament.

The Animal Welfare League of Arlington released these images on Instagram.

The organization said a barred owl swooped into an Arlington home and perched atop the tree after knocking down the star.

One of the animal welfare officers was able to gently capture the owl and release it back into the wild.

Officials said the animal got in like Santa Claus: through the chimney.

Animal welfare officials remind homeowners to keep a lid over their chimneys during the winter season. This can prevent critters from coming to visit.