The burrowing owl conservation program had some major milestones in 2018. In April, the team established a new breeding population in the Rancho Jamul Ecological Reserve, a vital step in creating population sustainability and a broader home range for the species. There was success for the birds at the Safari Park, as well: three chicks hatched at the Bird Breeding Center to much celebration—these were the first burrowing owl chicks to hatch at a SDZG facility. And a team of researchers, keepers, and veterinarians became heroes at the Safari Park’s Paul Harter Veterinary Center when they rescued three adult burrowing owls from the Otay Mesa group, which were being badly affected by a flea infestation. The owls came to the veterinary center for treatment and recovery, while the areas in an around their burrows were cleaned out to prepare for their return. The owls recovered well, and were back in their field homes a few weeks later.