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Raptor✓ Protected species

Owl / Barn Owl

Athene noctua / Strix aluco / Tyto alba

✓What to do NOW

  1. 1A nocturnal raptor found during the day is almost certainly in trouble — intervene
  2. 2Approach from behind, cover with a towel, and pick up restraining the wings
  3. 3Place in a dark, quiet box with ventilation holes
  4. 4Contact CRAS urgently
  5. 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

owlbarn owltawny owlscops owllittle owllong-eared owleagle owlshort-eared owl

Did you find a owl / barn owl right now?

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