An owl swoops down the chimney and claims the top of a Christmas tree, giving a Virginia family a festive memory they’ll never forget! Photos courtesy of the Animal Welfare League of Arlington on Facebook.

ICYMI: Christmas Surprise in Virginia! Owl Takes Over Family’s Tree – and Is a Social Media Star!

An owl swoops down the chimney and claims the top of a Christmas tree, giving a Virginia family a festive memory they’ll never forget! 🌐 #News #ArlingtonVA #Virginia #Lifestyle

ARLINGTON, VA – Yes, Virginia, there is an owl on top of your Christmas tree! In a bizarre twist that seems straight out of a holiday movie, an owl (thinking he was Santa Claus) flew down the chimney of a local Arlington, Virginia, home and decided to make a very fitting, yet unexpected, perch atop the family’s Christmas tree. The scene, captured in a now-viral photo, shows the feathered visitor glaring down with eyes so black, they could rival the darkest night.

The Feathered Intruder’s Entrance

It all started when the homeowner, Savannah Burgoyne, walked into her kitchen to find a large owl perched on her baby’s highchair. After a quick attempt to shoo the creature away, the owl wasn’t deterred—it simply took flight and landed on top of the Christmas tree, much to the surprise of the family.

The owl didn’t seem to mind the toppled Christmas star beneath it, making itself comfortable as if the tree was the perfect holiday spot for a bit of peace and quiet.

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A Magical Christmas Moment

The scene quickly turned magical for the family, especially for Burgoyne’s six-year-old daughter, who couldn’t contain her excitement at having an owl as an unexpected holiday guest.

The owl appeared completely at ease in its new position atop the tree, making the whole experience feel like something straight out of a Christmas fairytale.

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Local Authorities Help the Owl Find Its Way

After the owl had enjoyed its moment of holiday fame, local authorities were contacted to ensure its safe removal. The bird of prey was carefully taken back into the wild, where it could continue its nocturnal adventures.

For those who love a bit of trivia, the barred owl’s call is famously described as sounding like someone asking, “Who cooks for you?”—a fitting soundtrack to this odd but charming Christmas story.

RELATED TOPICS: Animals | Christmas | Virginia

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