An owl which was discovered trapped down a soot-filled Scots chimney has been released back into the wild following a dramatic rescue mission.
The 20-year-old bird, named Judi, was trapped for several days before being discovered by animal welfare officers in Hawick, Roxburghshire on March 19.
Upon inspection officers from the Scottish SPCA found that Judi was the second oldest tawny owl ever to be ringed in Scotland.
After being pulled out of the chimney the owl was found with extremely sore and irritated eyes which were causing her a huge discomfort.
However, despite her age she defied the odds to survive the ordeal - and following treatment and rehabilitation she regained her health and was successfully released back into the wild.
A spokesperson for the Scottish SPCA explained: "Tawny owl, Judi, was trapped down a soot-filled chimney. Stuck for some time before her rescue, her eyes were extremely sore and irritated, causing her a huge discomfort.
"Her bird ring tells us she’s the second oldest tawny owl ever to be ringed in Scotland! At 20 years old, she’s one of the oldest birds we’ve ever cared for!
"Following treatment and rehabilitation, Judi regained her health and was successfully released back into the wild. The rescues never stop. You can be part of rescuing more animals like Judi."
To donate and become a rescuer, click here.
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