A Legend Takes Flight: Honoring Bu2, Our Great Horned Owl With shattered hearts and misty eyes, we say goodbye to our beloved Bu2—a true icon of the South Plains Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and a soul who left an indelible mark on everyone lucky enough to know her. Bu2 wasn’t just an owl. She was the owl. For nearly 30 years, Bu2 stood as the face, the heart, and the spirit of our mission. With her fierce eyes and gentle soul, she greeted thousands of visitors, students, and volunteers—many of whom had never been that close to a raptor before. And once they met Bu2, they never forgot her. She came to us with injuries that made her unfit for life in the wild, but from day one, she showed us that she still had so much to give. And give, she did. She became a powerful ambassador for wildlife, helping generations understand the value of preservation, the importance of rehabilitation, and the majesty of creatures often misunderstood. For nearly three decades, Bu2 was lovingly cared for by Gail Barnes, who became not only her caretaker, but her soulmate in feathers and talons. Their bond was one of quiet devotion and deep understanding—one that words will never do justice. Gail gave her a life filled with safety, dignity, and unwavering love, and Bu2 gave back tenfold with every moment she perched beside her. On May 20, we brought Bu2 in to assess her comfort and quality of life. Her age—remarkable by any standard—had begun to weigh on her, and our veterinarian, with great compassion, helped us see that her body was no longer serving her fierce, magnificent spirit. With profound heartbreak, we made the agonizing decision to let her go—peacefully, surrounded by those who loved her most. Bu2 lived far longer than most Great Horned Owls ever do. In the wild, 13–15 years is a long life. In captivity, 20–25 is rare. Bu2 graced us for nearly 30. She beat every odd. And she did it with a spark in her eye and a fire in her feathers. She leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured. Her spunky attitude, her signature stares, her tolerance of our antics and our adoration—those memories will never fade. She taught us, inspired us, and gave a voice to the wild creatures who cannot speak for themselves. The center feels quieter now. Emptier. There is a weight in the air where her presence used to be. Her Mew Mate Titan has never spent a night alone. To her handlers, directors, volunteers, and all who ever met her—Bu2 was more than a bird. She was a reminder of what we are fighting to protect and rehabilitate. And her absence is deeply, deeply felt. Rest easy, sweet Bu2. Your wings were ready, even if our hearts never will be. You were our teacher, our legend, our queen. You will never be forgotten. Fly free. (fb)

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