The family from Wilmington reportedly realised they hit something but it was only when they got to their destination that they discovered the trapped owl.
They called for the help of Hatteras Island Wildlife Rehabilitation (HIWR) and the bird was safely removed.
This is the Barred Owl from last night, that was driven for hours in the grill of a car. Seems to be feeling much…
In a Facebook post the organisation said the bird was feeling “much better” the following day, adding: “A little worse for wear, but nothing major wrong. Sort of a good luck/bad luck situation…”
Lou Browning, of HIWR, said the organisation deals with around 70 to 100 birds of prey struck by cars per year.
Owl survives three-hour drive trapped in grille of car
