Chloe screeched when the barn owl’s wing brushed her hair. Her arm dropped and she turned away, seeking refuge in the black fabric of her grandmother’s dress. The lady from the birds of prey rescue centre let the owl settle back onto her own glove, stroking its feathers to soothe it. The beautiful, creamy bird swivelled its head, scanning the small crowd gathered to watch.
5-year-old Chloe was crying now.
A short queue awaited their turn to hold the barn owl, but the lady held up her right hand so they kept their distance. She crouched down to speak to Chloe.
‘Harry always flaps his wings when he moves on to another glove. It’s his way of making himself comfortable. He doesn’t mean to harm anyone. He’ll be calm again once he’s got his balance.’
Chloe turned to listen, her wide eyes fixed on Harry.
‘Would you like to try again?’, the lady encouraged.
Chloe nodded slowly, drying her eyes with the sleeve of her party dress.
‘How about you close your eyes until Harry gets settled? Hold out the glove and turn your head towards Grandma. Now shut your eyes tight until I tell you to open them again… Ready?’
Chloe did as instructed. And Harry was transferred from one glove to another, beating his wings briefly in the air for balance.
‘There! You can look now,’ the lady said gently.
Chloe’s expression instantly transformed as she gazed at the bird with its heart-shaped face. Her own face lit up with more than just sunshine. Harry allowed her to touch his plumage, remaining still while photos were snapped to immortalise the magical moment.
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