Introduction

Owning a pet owl is quite an enchanting idea for many animal lovers, but is it possible to keep one? Owls are intriguing animals, manifesting in folklore and myth, and their distinct appearance, which is both majestic and mysterious, makes them an alluring pet option. However, before deciding to get an owl as a pet, there are numerous things to consider. In this article, we will examine the pros and cons of owning an owl as a pet, the legal aspects of keeping owls as pets, the different breeds of owls that make suitable pets, the basics of owning and caring for an owl, and alternative pet options for owl lovers who aren’t able to keep them.

Pros and Cons of Owning an Owl as a Pet

Owning an owl can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with its fair share of challenges. Here are some of the pros and cons of owning an owl as a pet.

Pros

Owls are intelligent and curious creatures that can bring a lot of joy to their owners. They have unique personalities, and each owl has its own quirks and mannerisms. They can also be a great conversation starter, as visitors are often fascinated by their presence and will want to learn more about them.

Cons

One of the significant challenges of owning an owl is their size. Owls are larger than many other popular pet birds, and they need a lot of space to move around in. They require plenty of exercise and stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Additionally, they have a specialized diet consisting mainly of whole prey items, which can be quite expensive and challenging to obtain depending on where you live.

Understanding the Legal Aspects of Owning an Owl as a Pet

Before bringing an owl home as a pet, it is crucial to understand the legal aspects of keeping them in captivity.

Laws and Regulations

The legality of owning an owl as a pet varies depending on where you live. For instance, in the US, certain species, such as the snowy owl and great horned owl, are federally protected, and it’s illegal to keep them as pets without the proper permits. Other countries like the UK also have strict laws in place governing the ownership of birds of prey and require individuals to hold a license to keep them as pets.

Ethical Concerns

While owning a pet owl might seem intriguing and noble, it’s important to remember that owls are wild animals and are not meant to be kept in captivity. Many people are against owning owls for that reason and argue that it’s cruel to take them out of their natural habitat, especially if they were caught in the wild. Additionally, owls are nocturnal animals, which means they need to sleep during the day and be active at night. Owning an owl requires understanding and accommodating their natural behaviors.

The Best Breeds of Owls to Keep as Pets

There are several breeds of owls that make great pets. Here are the top five breeds of owls that are commonly kept as pets.

Barn Owls

Barn owls are the most popular breed of owl kept as a pet. They’re relatively small, weighing between 12-15 ounces, and are known for their striking appearance and large, soulful black eyes.

Great Horned Owls

Great Horned Owls are a majestic breed of owl. they are larger than most other breeds, with females weighing up to 4lbs. They can be a little more challenging to train and handle than a barn owl.

Screech Owls

Screech Owls are small owls, weighing between 4-9 ounces. They come in two different color phases, one reddish-brown and the other gray. They are mostly kept for their unique physical appearance and shy nature.

Pygmy Owls

Pygmy owls are tiny in size, with adults being around six inches tall. They are active mostly during the day and are full of energy and personality.

Snowy Owls

Snowy owls are big and majestic, and they are revered for their beauty and intelligence. They are social animals and tend to bond closely with their owners.

A Beginner’s Guide to Owning an Owl as a Pet

If you’re considering owning an owl for the first time, here are the essential things to keep in mind and the steps to take in preparation.

Where to Get an Owl

If owning an owl is legal in your area, the next step would be to find a reputable breeder. Always do your research before selecting a breeder or supplier. You must ensure that the owls are treated ethically and humanely.

Preparing the Enclosure

The enclosure should be spacious enough to allow the owl to move around freely but also give it ample space to fly. Ensure the area is safe, secure, and free of any hazardous materials. You should also provide perches, toys, and other items to keep the owl entertained and stimulated.

Bonding with Your Owl

Bonding with your owl requires patience, time, and effort. You’ll need to start by gaining their trust and respect. Check with your breeder regarding the owls’ daily habits, preferences, and nature to better understand the bird. Avoid sudden movements and loud noises that may startle your owl.

Caring for an Owl: Diet, Housing, and More

Taking care of an owl, especially when they are in captivity, requires additional attention to their feeding, housing, and overall well-being.

Housing

Owls require a large space to move around, flap their wings, and fly. Ensure your owl’s enclosure has plenty of perches, roosts, and hiding spots. The enclosure should be free from debris, with clean bedding, and well-ventilated.

Diet

Owls eat a whole prey diet consisting of small rodents, insects, and sometimes small vertebrates like fish or frogs. You can supplement their diet with commercial food if whole prey is not readily available.

Exercise

Owls require stimulation, but they also need ample rest. Ensure your owl gets enough exercise without overexerting itself. You can train it to fly to your hand or to perform rolls to keep it occupied.

Alternative Pets for Owl Lovers

If you love owls but aren’t in a position to keep one as a pet, here are some alternative pet options that owls lovers might enjoy.

Parrots

Parrots come in a variety of colors and species, with unique personalities and vocalizations that make them an intriguing pet option.

Rabbits

Rabbits are small and playful and require minimal care. They are intelligent and can be very sociable with their companions.

Cats

Cats make loving, playful, and adorable pets, and they enjoy cuddling and bonding with their owners.

Conclusion

Owning an owl can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with its fair share of challenges. It entails researching the legal aspects, selecting the right breed, and providing proper care. Owls are intelligent creatures with unique personalities, and they require specific attention and care. As a responsible pet owner, take the time to understand the needs of your new pet to ensure their well-being and happiness.