Eastern Grass Owl and white morph Grey Goshawk successfully rehabilitated

The Harwood area on the Clarence River near Maclean is certainly a hotspot for wildlife.  The proximity to the River and the variety of natural habitats means that a great diversity of species occurs there.  Brolgas, nesting Eastern Ospreys, Brahminy Kites, Black-necked (Satin) Storks, Mangrove Gerygones and many others are regularly seen there.  Despite this is was quite surprising to learn that two rare species, one a threatened species, were taken into care by WIRES after apparently being hit by motor vehicles.  The first was an Eastern Grass Owl found on 7 April 2014 and the second a white morph Grey Goshawk taken in on 30 April 2014. 

Eastern Grass Owl and white morph Grey Goshawk in WIRES care photo Sandy Webb 

The Goshawk was released successfully near where it was found, but away from the danger of the Pacific Highway, in early May.  The Grass Owl was released at the same location on Tuesday May 13.  Before it was released I placed an Australian Bird and Bat Banding Scheme numbered stainless steel band on its leg under Stephen Debus' rehabilitated raptor banding project.  Photos of the banding are shown below: