A YOUNG barn owl which tore herself free from captivity had to have a leg amputated -- and now needs a home.

The three-month-old bird, christened Olive by veterinary staff, was found on a road in the Wellgate area of Clitheroe.

She was taken to Graham Bettess, of Myerscough vets, Clitheroe, who passed her to Helen Adsett (pictured), of Blackburn animal charity Wild-Life-Line. Helen said the leg was badly damaged as if the owl had been tearing for weeks at a rope tied around her ankle.

She took her to Springfield veterinary clinic, Redlam, Blackburn, where her leg was amputated.

Helen said: "She managed to stand on one leg within a few minutes of coming round from the anaesthetic and she has been feeding quite happily."

But Olive, who has been bred in captivity and has a ring on her leg, is likely to need special care and can never be released into the wild as she cannot catch or tear up her own food with only one leg.

She will need to live in an indoor aviary.

Olive is staying at Helen's Hollin Bridge Street home but Helen would like to find her original owner to see if they can care for her.

Helen can be contacted on 01254 693735.

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