Owls are intriguing, mysterious birds that captivate many people who admire their large eyes, soft feathers, and ability to fly silently through the night. It’s understandable why someone may consider getting an owl as a unique pet. However, there are important factors to consider before bringing one of these birds into your home.
Owls require very specific care and housing requirements. Most species are nocturnal and can be quite noisy at night. They have sharp talons and beaks that can inflict injury if an owl feels threatened. Additionally, it’s illegal to keep native owl species as pets in many areas. Only captive-bred owls of certain species can legally be owned without special permits.
This article will provide an overview on the realities of owning an owl as a pet. We’ll explore the following key questions:
– Are owls legal to own as pets?
– What are the housing requirements for pet owls?
– What do pet owls eat?
– Are owls affectionate or dangerous?
– How much does it cost to own an owl?
– Is owning an owl ethical?
These details will help you make an informed decision before bringing one of these raptors into your home. Let’s take a closer look at what’s involved with owning an owl as a pet.
Are Owls Legal to Own as Pets?
Legality is one of the first issues to research if you’re interested in having an owl as a pet. In the United States, laws regarding owning owls vary by state. Some have an outright ban, while others require permits. Yet other states allow ownership without restrictions. Here are some key legal considerations:
– Native owl species are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is illegal to possess any native owls without special permits for education, research, rehabilitation, or propagation purposes. Fines for violation can be up to $15,000 per individual bird.
– States may have additional restrictions beyond federal law. For example, Idaho, Oregon, and Minnesota prohibit private ownership of any owl species.
– Most states allow possession of foreign/exotic owl species like eagle owls or great horned owls with no permit required. However, some states restrict this as well.
– Some cities and municipalities have local ordinances further restricting ownership within certain geographic zones.
To determine if owl ownership is legal in your area, thoroughly research federal, state, and local laws. Consult with a knowledgeable avian attorney if necessary to fully understand all regulations. Only proceed if ownership is clearly allowed with proper permitting or licensing. Violating wildlife laws could result in surrendering the owl, fines, or even criminal charges.
Housing Requirements for Pet Owls
Owls have specific housing requirements to keep them healthy and safe. Here are some essentials for proper owl enclosures:
– *Large size* – The absolute minimum dimensions are 8 feet high by 6 feet long by 3 feet wide (as large as a small bedroom). Bigger is better to allow flying and exercise.
– *Proper materials* – Sturdy wire mesh or aviary netting for walls and ceiling so the owl can’t escape. Non-toxic, easy to clean surfaces.
– *Outdoor access* – A partially sheltered outdoor aviary connected to the indoor space is ideal to provide fresh air.
– *Perches* – Natural tree branches at various heights for roosting and climbing.
– *Nest box* – A secluded cubby or box for sleeping and retreat.
– *Limited light* – Dim lighting since owls are nocturnal. Blackout capacity for true dark at night.
– *Climate control* – Heating, cooling, ventilation, and humidity control. Especially important for species accustomed to certain environments.
– *Secure doors* – Locks and latches must be owl-proof to prevent escape or injuries.
– *Cleanliness* – Daily cleaning to remove food debris, feathers, and droppings. Proper disinfectants to prevent disease.
Owl enclosures require intense construction, maintenance, and monitoring to keep the birds physically and psychologically healthy. For many homeowners, this level of housing is difficult to provide long-term.
What Do Pet Owls Eat?
Owls are carnivorous predators that only eat meat. In the wild they consume small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Various pet owl species have the following dietary needs:
– *Mice or rats* – Whole, pre-killed rodents are a staple food. Quail, chicks, or rabbit may also be eaten.
– *Insects* – Crickets, mealworms, waxworms provided nutritional variety.
– *Small bird carcasses* – Some supplemental whole animal parts.
– *Calcium/vitamin supplements* – Added to food to balance nutrition.
– *No poultry* – Chicken or poultry meat carries risk of bacterial infection. Avoid these.
– *Fresh water* – Clean water must be available at all times.
Adult owls may eat 4-6 ounces of food daily depending on weight. Food intake should be monitored to maintain proper body condition. Obtaining enough food of the right composition can be challenging for the average pet owner. Owls are messy eaters too, so expect leftovers and regurgitated pellets.
Are Owls Affectionate or Dangerous?
Many people fantasize about owning an affectionate, friendly owl that can interact extensively with humans. However, the reality is very different. Here are some points regarding owl behavior as pets:
– *Not affectionate/social* – Owls bond with mates, not humans. Don’t expect cuddling or companionship.
– *Can be aggressive* – Owls are generally not friendly pets. Nips and attacks are likely.
– *Require handling precautions* – Thick gloves and specialized restraint techniques are a must.
– *Can’t be potty trained* – Owls will expel waste anywhere in their enclosure.
– *May scream at night* – Expect loud vocalizations disrupting sleep.
– *Prone to stress* – Unstable owls may self-mutilate or refuse food.
With patience, some owls may become relatively tolerant of human presence and handling over time. But they should never be considered tame or safe pets for playing or interaction. Their powerful beaks and sharp talons can cause serious injury. Even well-meaning owners may experience aggressive owl behaviors as the birds mature.
How Much Does It Cost to Own an Owl?
Between the owl itself, housing, food, and medical care, pet owl expenses add up quickly. Here are typical costs to consider:
– *Purchase price* – $200-$5,000+ depending on owl species, origins, and rarity
– *Housing* – $1,000-$5,000+ for large enclosure construction
– *Permits/licenses* – $50-$500+ annually depending on location
– *Food* – $200-$300+ annually for mice, chicks, insects
– *Medical care* – $300-$1000+ annually for exams, treatments
– *Enrichment* – $50-$200+ annually for new perches, toys
– *Misc supplies* – $100-$500+ annually for cleaning, supplements, misc
*Total first year cost* – Approximately $2,000-$12,000+ depending on species
*Annual care after first year* – Approximately $700-$3000+ per owl
Owls have long lifespans, often 10-20+ years depending on species. This represents a long-term, expensive commitment to properly care for the birds year after year.
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $200-$5000 |
| Housing | $1000-$5000 |
| Permits/Licenses | $50-$500 |
| Annual Food | $200-$300 |
| Annual Medical | $300-$1000 |
| Annual Enrichment | $50-$200 |
| Annual Misc Supplies | $100-$500 |
| Total First Year Cost | $2000-$12,000 |
| Annual Care After First Year | $700-$3000 |
Is Owning an Owl Ethical?
Even if owl ownership is legal, there are ethical concerns to evaluate:
– *Wild animal trade* – Captive owls create demand supporting wildlife trafficking.
– *Shortened lifespan* – Captivity may shorten owl lifespan compared to the wild.
– *Stress behaviors* – Captive owls often show stress through screaming, pacing, feather-plucking.
– *Inability to fly* – Confinement prevents natural flying behaviors.
– *Improper diet* – Issued food cannot fully replicate wild diet.
– *Lack of socialization* – Solitary confinement differs from complex owl social structures in nature.
– *Public safety* – Escaped captive owls could threaten native wildlife.
Breeding programs for conservation are justified causes for captive owls. But keeping captive owls solely for personal enjoyment is questionable from an ethical standpoint. Their psychological suffering and deprived natural behaviors raise animal welfare concerns. Their advanced hunting abilities and loud vocalizations also make them very difficult pets for most owners to manage.
Conclusion
Owls are not ideal pets for several reasons. They require intense specialized care, housing, diet, and training. Even when needs are met, owls remain wild predators that typically do not become affectionate companions. Furthermore, legal restrictions prevent owning native North American owl species that are federally protected.
Exotic owls allowable as pets still present ethical issues of wildlife trafficking and deprivation from natural behaviors. Overall, the challenges of properly caring for an owl usually outweigh the enjoyment of keeping them as pets. Much better options exist for prospective bird owners seeking an interactive, friendly avian pet. Save the owls for admiring in the wild!
