OSHKOSH, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A snowy owl was shot and killed by an employee at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

Airport officials say the shooting prevented a potentially dangerous collision in the air.

A maintenance worker allegedly tried to shoo the bird away. When that didn't work, Airport officials said there was no choice but to shoot the bird.

The airport has a permit from the government allowing them to kill snowy owls if necessary.