A British Army sailing crew encountered a unique passenger while racing 70 miles off the Norfolk coast. The team discovered a struggling barn owl circling their vessel, British Soldier, as it fought to stay airborne over the North Sea. After several attempts to find a safe perch, the exhausted bird collapsed on the boat deck.
The soldiers provided immediate care, placing the owl in a makeshift box to keep it safe during the remainder of their race. They nicknamed the bird Little Reg, a nod to their parachute regiment. Crew member Mark Petherbridge noted the bird displayed remarkable tenacity during a difficult 24 hours at sea.
Upon nearing the Norfolk coastline, the Army team coordinated with the Caister Independent Lifeboat service to facilitate a rescue. The lifeboat crew met the vessel at sea, transferred the owl to land, and ensured it reached the East Winch Wildlife Centre for professional veterinary assessment. Experts suspect the bird may have been roosting on a fishing vessel before being carried far out into the ocean.
Wildlife rescuers confirmed the owl was dehydrated and thin upon arrival. Staff at the rehabilitation center provided necessary fluids, and the bird is showing signs of recovery after successfully eating. The rescue effort involved cooperation between the military, independent lifeboat volunteers, and conservation specialists to ensure the survival of an animal far outside its natural range.