Tiny owl discovered in Rockefeller Plaza Christmas tree

Plans to release owl this weekend

An owl discovered inside the Rockefeller Christmas tree in New York is recovering at a wildlife refuge facility.

The bird - a saw-whet owl - was found by a worker helping to transport the 75ft (23 metres) tree from Oneonta, New York to New York City.

The tiny owl, which has been named Rockefeller, was found on Monday and taken to Ravensbeard Wildlife Centre (RWC) in Saugerties, New York to recover.  

Rockefeller was dehydrated and hungry but otherwise had no injuries, said Ellen Kalish, director and founder of RWC.

Ms Kalish said the bird is an adult male saw-whet owl, one of the tiniest owls. There are about two million of the species across the US, she added.

Rockefeller was taken to a vet on Wednesday and got a clean bill of health. The plan is two release him into the wild this weekend.

“He's had a buffet of all-you-can-eat mice, so he's ready to go," said Ms Kalish.

Rockefeller was dehydrated and hungry but otherwise fine (Ravensbeard Wildlife Centre)

Each year a tree is erected outside the Rockefeller Center and decorated in the run up to Christmas.

But this year's effort has been roundly mocked on social media over its "sparse" appearance and drooping branches.  

“Wow, you all must look great right after a two-day drive, huh? Just wait until I get my lights on! See you on December 2!” the Rockefeller Center tweeted in response to the jibes.

The owl's discovery may serve as some positive news for the Christmas tree, which has been described as a metaphor for 2020.