Rocky, the little owl who was rescued from the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, takes flight

The little owl found in the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree took flight on Tuesday after being treated at a wildlife rehab center for several days.

The Ravensbeard Wildlife Center said Tuesday that Rocky – short for Rockefeller – had been cleared for take-off at dusk by avian vets and owl experts.

“Rocky’s release was a success!” the center said in a Facebook post on Tuesday. “She is a tough little bird and we are happy to see her again in her natural habitat.”

“We’re sure Rocky will feel your love and support throughout his journey south,” the post continued.

Dozens of people have expressed their gratitude on social media for his speedy recovery and safe release.

On Tuesday, a Facebook user said: “It made me cry a little, in a good way! Good life Rocky. “

The adult was rescued last week after accompanying 75-foot Norway Spruce from Oneonta, in upstate New York, for the 170-km trip to New York City.

When the owl was found, it had not eaten or drunk in days, but began to recover after being given fluids and food. A worker who helped transport and secure the tree discovered the owl and his wife called the Ravensbeard Wildlife Center.

The center said a trip back to Oneonta would likely be too traumatic for the bird, so it planned to release it at the facility’s grounds in the northern state town of Saugerties.

Tim stelloh contributed.