Raptor✓ Protected species
Owl / Barn Owl
Athene noctua / Strix aluco / Tyto alba
What to do NOW
- 1A nocturnal raptor found during the day is almost certainly in trouble — intervene
- 2Approach from behind, cover with a towel, and pick up restraining the wings
- 3Place in a dark, quiet box with ventilation holes
- 4Contact CRAS urgently
- 5If the barn owl shows neurological symptoms (tremors, circling, unable to stand): rodenticide poisoning — report to CRAS immediately
NEVER do this
- Do not give food or water
- Do not expose to bright light or noise
- Do not try to feed it mice or meat: imprinting risk is high
- Do not keep for more than 2–3 hours without contacting a CRAS
Important note
The barn owl (Tyto alba) is the species most affected by second-generation rodenticide poisoning: eating poisoned mice accumulates anticoagulants in its liver. Symptoms: weakness, haemorrhage, disorientation. This is a toxicological emergency — intravenous vitamin K1 is needed. Always report the location of the find to track poisoning outbreaks.
Legal protection
All species protected by Law 157/1992 and the Birds Directive. Deliberate disturbance is a criminal offence.
Also known as
- owl
- barn owl
- tawny owl
- scops owl
- little owl
- long-eared owl
- eagle owl
- short-eared owl
Similar animals
Full guide
Little owl or tawny owl found on the ground: what to do (and why good intentions aren't enough)
A nocturnal raptor on the ground during the day is almost always in trouble. Practical guide: how to collect it safely, the most common causes, and why rat poison kills owls too.
Read the guide →
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