In early February, residents of Ruhnu island, specifically cattle keepers Marten Riisenberg and Kee Abel, stumbled upon an unusual dead owl while checking on their hay bales. Initially mistaking the bird for a piece of snow due to its white coloring, Riisenberg described the moment of discovery as surprising and highlighted the extremities of the winter weather possibly contributing to the owl's presence in their farm area.

The finding is significant not just for the local community but also for ornithologists and bird enthusiasts, as such sightings of the long-eared owl are rare. The island has seen little news lately, making this discovery particularly notable and giving it a touch of excitement from what feels like it came 'directly from the sky'. The area's severe winter conditions have led to speculations about unusual wildlife occurrences, as the extreme weather can disrupt animal behavior and habitat.

This incident raises concerns and curiosity regarding wildlife management and conservation efforts in Estonia, given how climate impacts animal movements and survival. The local community's engagement with nature reinforces the need for awareness about local wildlife, especially during harsh winters. Such occurrences can lead to a greater appreciation of biodiversity within the region and encourage further exploration and conversation about the conservation of both common and rare species.