by Molly Williams, Education Coordinator, Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary
If you’ve been to the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary within the last year, you may have noticed a great horned owl perched in a tree near one of our great horned owl exhibits. Did one of our owls find its way out of the exhibit?
No, that handsome owl would be the one that sanctuary staff has lovingly knighted with the name Prince Albert. The tale as old as time: handsome Albert has a serious crush on Victoria, one of our female great horned owls.
Victoria started calling Heritage Park her home in 2009 after being rescued from a wing injury; one that kept her from being released. Albert was first noticed visiting Victoria in the beginning of 2021.
Since then, every day you can see Albert perched some place near Victoria. You may find him on her exhibit, perched in the tree right next to hers, or perhaps across the path gazing from a distance.
Albert comes and goes as he pleases and never bothers sanctuary guests, staff or residents. Albert and Victoria will call to one another during the day and into the nighttime hours. It’s truly an amazing bond to witness.
Next time you visit the sanctuary be sure to look up and get a glimpse of the loving Prince Albert and his Queen Victoria, the true royalty of Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary.