Stump
Stump, an Eastern Screech Owl, arrived at the Auburn University Raptor Center in 2010 after being found on the side of the road. At first glance, the person who discovered her mistook her for a small tree stump. That moment of confusion ultimately inspired her name. Unfortunately, Stump had suffered significant head and eye trauma, likely from a vehicle collision, and the injuries resulted in the removal of one eye. Because of these lasting impairments, she could not be released back into the wild.
Eastern Screech Owls rely heavily on natural cavities and old woodpecker holes for nesting, making them especially sensitive to the loss of mature trees. Stump helps us highlight the importance of preserving natural spaces in our neighborhoods. Her story reminds us that even small decisions, like maintaining old trees, reducing pesticide use, and creating wildlife friendly yards, can make a meaningful difference for the tiny owls that share our communities.
Stump’s presence in programs helps visitors appreciate the resilience of these tiny nocturnal predators and gain a deeper understanding of the important roles they play in our ecosystems.
