A couple who heard noises from their chimney for five days, were shocked to discover the culprit was found to be a trapped tawny owl.
Homeowners were first alerted after hearing scratching noises coming from their chimney flue, and spotted feathers inside their wood burner stove.
Concerned that there may be something trapped inside, they alerted their local RSPCA who then dispatched an animal rescue officer to the scene.
Eventually after a delicate operation, making sure there was no harm to the owl, the little bird was freed.
Despite looking worse for wear, the bird was found to be unharmed and taken to a local RSPCA Wildlife Centre to be checked over and undergo rehab.
He will stay there until he is strong enough to be released back into the wild.
Fitting a special chimney cowl or a wire mesh guard is vital to preventing birds from flying or falling down a chimney.
