Adopting a rescued British barn owl can be a rewarding experience, but it is not a decision to be taken lightly. Owls, like any bird species, require specific care and attention. If you’re contemplating this remarkable endeavour, you need to understand that owning a barn owl is not the same as having a domesticated pet like a dog or cat. It involves a commitment that goes beyond feeding and housing, extending to the owl’s overall health and wellbeing. In this article, we will explore a number of important factors you should consider before making this important decision.
Understanding the Nature of Owls
Before you proceed with the adoption, it’s crucial to comprehend the nature of owls and how they differ from common pets. Owls are wild animals, not bred for life in captivity. They have specific needs and behaviours that can be difficult to cater to in a home environment.
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Owls are nocturnal birds of prey. They have evolved to hunt at night, using their exceptional eyesight and hearing to find prey in the dark. This means that an owl’s natural rhythm is to sleep during the day and be awake at night, something that could disrupt your usual routines.
These majestic birds also require a significant amount of space. In the wild, they have territories that can span several miles. A small cage or box is not appropriate for them, and they need a special nest box and plenty of room to fly and explore.
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The Legalities of Owning an Owl
Just as you would research the legalities of adopting any animal, owning an owl requires compliance with specific regulations. In many areas, it is illegal to keep an owl without a special permit or license. This is largely to protect wild bird species and ensure that they are not taken from their natural habitats for the pet trade.
Before you consider adopting a British barn owl, find out what the laws are in your area. This will likely involve contacting your local wildlife authority or consulting a wildlife rehabilitator. They can guide you on whether it’s legally possible to adopt a barn owl and what permits you might need.
Preparing Your Home for an Owl
Preparing your home for an owl is another significant consideration. Owls, as mentioned earlier, are nocturnal and require a lot of space. You will need to modify your home or property to suit their needs.
At the very least, they will need a large, well-ventilated cage or aviary with a secure, weather-proof nest box. This needs to be in a quiet, dark place away from household noise and activity. It should also be safe from potential predators, including other pets.
Furthermore, barn owls are not suited to a diet of standard bird feed. They eat a carnivorous diet, primarily of small mammals like mice and voles. This means you’ll need to source appropriate food for your owl, which could involve purchasing frozen prey items from a reputable supplier.
Caring for a Rescued Owl
Adopting a rescued owl often means that you’re taking in a bird that has been injured or orphaned. These owls may need extra care and attention as they recover or grow.
Caring for a rescued owl involves regular monitoring of their health, which may include visits to a vet who specializes in bird care. Owls can suffer from a variety of health issues, including parasites, bacterial and fungal infections, and injuries from accidents or attacks by other animals.
Moreover, remember that owls do not typically exhibit affection or attachment to their human caregivers in the way that domesticated pets do. They are solitary animals that do not seek out human interaction. While they can become accustomed to the presence of humans, they are not animals that enjoy being cuddled or petted.
The Digital Aspect of Owl Adoption
One last thing to consider before adopting a rescued British barn owl is the digital aspect. Adopting an owl can be a wonderful opportunity to learn about these majestic bird species and share your experiences with others. Many owl adopters find great pleasure in documenting their owl’s life through photos and videos, sharing them on social media, or even setting up live owl cams to allow others to watch their owl’s activities.
However, it is important to approach this thoughtfully. While it can be a great way of raising awareness about owl conservation, it’s also essential to respect the privacy and wellbeing of your owl. Too much human interaction or disturbance can be stressful for these birds, so any digital documenting should be done carefully and respectfully.
Remember, adopting an owl is a serious commitment and should not be taken lightly. It requires a lot of care, time, resources, and understanding. Make sure you are fully prepared and capable of providing the best possible home for your adopted owl.
The Adoption Process and Support
Embarking on the journey to adopt an owl is a process that requires thorough preparation. Unlike adopting a domesticated pet, bringing a barn owl into your home involves dealing with wildlife rehabilitation centres, obtaining necessary permits, and making substantial adjustments to your lifestyle and surroundings.
Firstly, you would need to approach a reputable organisation that rescues and rehabilitates barn owls. These organisations are dedicated to the care and protection of barn owls, ensuring they are healthy and fit before considering them for adoption. They also provide an adoption pack, which typically includes information about the owl, its history, and essential care tips.
Secondly, it is likely that you would need to go through a rigorous approval process. This can include home checks to see if your property is suitable for housing a barn owl, interviews to assess your readiness and understanding of the commitment involved, and sometimes even training sessions to equip you with the necessary skills to care for your adopted bird.
Happily, you are not alone in this process. Many organisations offer continued support post-adoption. This can range from advice lines and online resources, to experiences courses where you can learn more about barn owl behaviour and care.
Remember, the adoption process can be lengthy and demanding, but it is all designed to ensure the welfare of these precious birds. By going through this process, you demonstrate your commitment and readiness to provide a loving and suitable home for your adopted barn owl.
Capturing the Magic: Owl Photography and Raising Awareness
Embracing the digital aspect of owl adoption can be an incredibly rewarding experience, as well as an effective method of raising awareness about barn owl conservation. For many, partaking in a photographic competition or simply sharing owl photos on social media platforms can be a fulfilling way to commemorate the experience.
However, it is crucial that this is done with the utmost respect for the bird. Remember, barn owls are not captive bred, but wild animals. They may be startled or stressed by flash photography or too much human interaction. Always prioritise your owl’s comfort and safety above capturing the perfect shot.
By sharing your journey, you can inspire others and spread essential information about these incredible birds of prey. Whether it’s about the importance of putting up nest boxes to provide safe breeding places for barn owls, the danger of using poison that can harm the bird’s prey and subsequently the bird itself, or the critical role of wildlife hospitals and the amazing work they do, your experiences can have a powerful impact.
Conclusion: The Lifelong Commitment to Your Adopted Barn Owl
In conclusion, adopting a rescued British barn owl is not a decision to be made lightly. It requires serious consideration, preparation, and a significant commitment of time, resources, and love. However, with the right approach and understanding, it can be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling journey.
Remember, your commitment doesn’t end when the owl arrives at your home. It is a lifelong responsibility that demands continuous learning and adaptation. From providing the appropriate diet and living conditions, monitoring their health, to understanding their unique behaviours – it’s all part of the extraordinary journey of sharing your life with a barn owl.
Whether you are inspired by the beauty of these birds, or driven by a passion for their conservation, adopting a barn owl is an act of love that extends beyond the bird itself. It’s about respecting and preserving the natural world, and playing your part in the survival of this magnificent bird of prey. So, if you are ready to take on this challenge and responsibility, the world of owl adoption awaits you.
