Courtesy National Zoo.

The Snowy Owl recently spotted near McPherson Square was taken to the National Zoo for treatment today after reportedly being hit by a bus. She is now in the care of City Wildlife and is expected to survive.

A release from the Zoo says the Snowy Owl was found by the Metropolitan Police Department after reportedly being hit near 15th and I streets NW. MPD reported the injury to National Zoological Police.

Upon arrival, the snowy owl was alert and responsive but subdued. There were no obvious physical injuries but there was blood on the bird. Upon further examination, blood was found in the mouth which is consistent with suspected head trauma. The owl was provided supportive care which included pain medication, Meloxicam, and non-steroid inflammatory drug akin to aspirin and provided fluids sub-cutaneously.

The owl, who appears to be female, was picked up by City Wildlife for rehabilitation: “City Wildlife Biologist Abby Hehmeyer says they will give the owl x-rays in order to determine any missed injuries, but their goal is to release her as soon as possible.”

City Wildlife president Anne Lewis says they’re examining the Snowy Owl but don’t have a prognosis yet.

It’s not known which kind of bus, whether Metro or otherwise, hit the owl. We’ll update as we learn more.