Meet the baby owl born at the Irish National Heritage Park in Wexford – ‘We're absolutely thrilled'
Barn owl numbers have declined dramatically in recent decades due to habitat loss and road deaths. However, recent conservation efforts with a emphasis on habitat restoration have returned hope for these beautiful but silent hunters.
'We're absolutely thrilled,' says the park's master falconer, Jim O'Connor. 'A baby barn owl is a rare thing to see and a reminder of the vital importance of conservation. Visitors can come and see the baby owl during their visit, it's a magical experience.'
Known for their eerie screeches and ghostly silent flight, barn owls play an essential role in controlling rodent populations and maintaining ecological balance.
In Irish folklore, they have long been creatures of mystery and were once associated with omens and the spirit world. While its too early to tell the owl's gender, name suggestions are being invited from the local public.
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Irish Examiner
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Agriland
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