Owls are mysterious, captivating birds that have fascinated humans for centuries. Their large, forward-facing eyes give them a wise and solemn appearance. Owls are also powerful hunters with almost supernatural abilities to fly silently on their muted wings. It’s no wonder many people find owls alluring and want to have an owl as a pet.
Can Owls Be Kept as Pets?
While it may seem appealing to have a mini owl as a pet, the reality is that owls do not make good pets for the average person. Owls are wild animals, not domesticated to live with humans like dogs and cats. They have very specific needs in terms of diet, housing, environment, and care that are challenging for most people to properly meet. Additionally, it is illegal in many parts of the world to keep native owl species as personal pets.
However, in some areas it is legal to keep certain non-native or captive-bred owl species as pets, with proper permits and licenses. The most common types of owls seen in the pet trade are:
| Species | Size |
| Eurasian Eagle Owl | Very large (up to 28 inches tall) |
| Great Horned Owl | Large (up to 22 inches tall) |
| Snowy Owl | Medium to large (21-28 inches tall) |
| Eastern Screech Owl | Small (7-10 inches tall) |
| Elf Owl | Very small (5-6 inches tall) |
| Pygmy Owl | Very small (6-8 inches tall) |
The Eurasian eagle owl is the largest owl species kept as pets. The tiny elf owl and pygmy owl are two of the smallest owl species sometimes kept as pets. While smaller owls may seem more appealing as pets due to their miniature size, they actually tend to be more high-strung, nervous, and prone to stress in captive situations. Larger owl species, especially those bred in captivity, are generally better suited as pets since they are calmer and less easily startled. However, their sheer size means they require expansive, specialized housing.
Pet Owl Species Details
Let’s look in more detail at some of the most common pet owl species:
Eurasian Eagle Owl
As one of the largest owl species, the Eurasian eagle owl’s sheer size makes it a spectacle but also challenging to properly care for as a pet. An enclosure the size of a small bedroom is needed at minimum to house one of these massive owls. They can be impressively tame when bred in captivity and given frequent handling. However, being large birds of prey, they can also be potentially dangerous with powerful talons that can inflict injury. Careful management and glove training is essential.
Great Horned Owl
Also a very large owl requiring an aviary-style enclosure, the great horned owl can make for an intriguing pet for an experienced bird owner. However, they rarely become as tame or amenable to handling as some other pet owl species. Their permanent tall ear tufts give them a distinctive, wise look. But they are prone to be stressed in captivity situations.
Snowy Owl
Strikingly beautiful with pure white plumage, the snowy owl is a medium to large-sized species kept by some as an exotic pet. Their welfare in captivity tends to be better than smaller owls, though they are prone to obesity and related health issues if fed inappropriately and not given ample space to fly. As wild owls adapted to the open tundra, they may become frustrated by enclosure confinement.
Eastern Screech Owl
One of the most commonly kept pet owl species is the eastern screech owl. Their small size of only 7-10 inches tall means they can be housed in smaller enclosures compared to large owl species. Their wide range of vocalizations from trills, whinnies, to barks provides auditory interest. However, their small size also results in these owls being more high-strung, easily spooked, and prone to stress-related health issues in captivity if not expertly cared for.
Elf Owl
Weighing a mere 1.5 to 2 ounces, tiny elf owls are intriguing but extremely challenging to properly care for as pets. In the wild they thrive in the desert where they can nest in saguaro cactus cavities. But they struggle in captivity as their small size essentially means every environmental factor is exaggerated to them. Keeping them in naturalistic aviaries with nest boxes can help, but they are best suited only for experienced specialists.
Pygmy Owl
Pygmy owls are pint-sized owls, often weighing only 2 to 4 ounces as adults. There are multiple pygmy owl species found around the world, including northern, mountain, and Australasian pygmy owls. While their miniature size may give them cute appeal as pets, it also means they are very high maintenance, delicate, and stressful to keep healthy in captivity. They need expert avian husbandry.
Pet Owl Husbandry Needs
To keep any pet owl healthy and content, there are some basic husbandry standards owners must meet. Below are some of the essential elements:
Enclosure Size
Pet owls cannot be kept in typical pet bird cages. They need very spacious, tall aviaries or flight cages, with larger owl species requiring entire rooms devoted to them. The enclosure must be big enough for the owl to fully extend its wings and fly.
Perches and Nest Box
Various sized perches should be provided to allow natural grasping postures. Natural branch types are ideal. Nest boxes give the owls a place to retreat, feel secure, and sleep.
Temperature Control
Owls are susceptible to heat stress. Air conditioning, fans, misters, and shade must be provided in warm climates. Heating and insulation should be used to maintain cooler temperatures preferred by some species.
Lighting
Natural lighting is ideal. If artificial lights are used, a daylight spectrum bulb should be used and a day/night cycle maintained.
Outdoor Aviaries
When possible, keeping pet owls in outdoor aviaries is preferrable as it allows fresh air, natural lighting, ample space, and is less monotonous.
Exercise
Regular exercise by being allowed supervised time to fly outdoors is vitally important to an owl’s health and satisfaction in captivity.
Enrichment
Environmental enrichment such as novel perches, toys, sounds, baths, and interacting with their owner provides mental stimulation.
Diet
Feeding an appropriate diet of whole prey items like mice, chicks, rats, quail, and other small animals is essential. Vitamin supplements are often also needed.
Challenges of Owning Pet Owls
Even if the basic husbandry needs can be met, there are still other considerable challenges involved in keeping pet owls:
Permits and Legality
In many areas, it is illegal to keep native owl species as personal pets. Permits are required for captive-bred, non-native species.
Expense
Owls are expensive pets, costing hundreds to thousands of dollars to purchase and set up properly. Ongoing care, feeding, and vet bills are also costly.
Time Commitment
Owls are high maintenance pets requiring substantial time devoted daily to cleaning, feeding, exercising, enrichment, and socializing. They cannot be left alone like cats and dogs.
Specialized Knowledge
Having avian expertise and understanding owls’ unique needs is a must to keep them healthy. They are not beginner pets.
Long Lifespans
Owls commonly live 10-20+ years depending on species. Caring for them is a long-term commitment.
Stress and Health Issues
Many owls do not adjust well to captivity, leading to chronic stress, depression, and illness. Weakened immune systems make them prone to infections.
Aggression
Owls showing aggressive behavior towards their owners may need to be housed separately for safety. Glove training at a young age can reduce risks.
Nocturnal Activity
Owls’ natural nocturnal rhythms may conflict with owners’ sleep schedules. Their nighttime calls can also be disruptive.
Escaping
An escaped owl will likely not survive in the wild. Precautions must be taken to prevent any possibility of escape.
Legalities of Keeping Owls as Pets
Due to concerns for the welfare of wild owls as well as public safety, laws regulating the private ownership of owls exist in most developed nations. Here is an overview of the legal status:
United States
Laws vary by state. Some states allow captive-bred non-native pet owls. Most prohibit native wild species. Exotic pet permits are required.
Canada
Several provinces allow non-native captive-bred pet owls with permits. Native species are protected federally.
United Kingdom
Owl ownership is legal with Article 10 certificates from local councils. Import regulations prohibit some species.
Australia
Owl ownership is legal in some parts of Australia but banned in others. Captive breeding license required.
Japan
Owls are considered protected wildlife and cannot be owned without special permits only for research, zoos, rehabilitation, etc.
France
Owl ownership is restricted and requires permits only granted for breeding, educational, or research purposes.
Netherlands
Only legal to own captive-bred owls after passing a licensing exam to demonstrate expertise in care.
Germany
Owls are protected species and owning them is generally prohibited without permits for specific purposes.
Where to Acquire a Pet Owl
If owl ownership is legal in your area, the next key step is finding an ethical source to acquire the pet from. Here are some options:
Captive Owl Breeders
Reputable specialty breeders can offer captive-born owls that are hand-raised and well-socialized. Ensure the facility is properly licensed and cared for.
Owl Sanctuaries
Some rescue groups or sanctuaries may occasionally adopt out certain owls in need of permanent placement after rehabilitation.
Individual Re-homing
Occasionally owl owners who can no longer care for their pet may look to re-home them with someone who has expertise. Vet references are critical.
Avoid Unsuitable Sources
Never acquire owls from unverified online advertisements or dealers involved in illegal wildlife trade. Only source fromproper facilities.
Purchase In-Person
It is best to visit any facility in-person to evaluate the owls’ condition before agreeing to acquire one as a pet.
Ask For Veterinary Records
Always request documentation of any vet examinations, health records, and genetic background if applicable.
Selecting an Individual Pet Owl
When selecting an actual owl to bring home as a new pet, here are some tips:
Personality
Look for an owl with an inquisitive but calm demeanor who appears well-socialized to humans.
Age
Owlets require extensive hands-on care but bond closely with owners. Adult owls are often calmer.
Gender
Females tend to be slightly larger. Unpaired males may be very vocal calling for mates.
History
Choose an owl hand-raised from a young age and well-habituated to people for the best pet prospects.
Health
Select an active owl with bright eyes, smooth feathers, and no signs of illness or injury.
Parent-Reared vs. Hand-Raised
Hand-fed babies bond more readily with humans but may have poorer survival instincts if released.
Species
Match the species to your climate, experience level, enclosure size, and noise tolerance.
Breeding Status
Only experienced breeders should consider a mating pair or breeding owl. Single owls make better pets.
Meet Multiple Individuals
Spend time interacting with several different owls before selecting the specific pet for your home.
Preparing a Home for a Pet Owl
Bringing an owl into your home requires significant preparation and investment. Below are some key steps:
Construct Enclosure
Have a fully outfitted, large enclosure custom built specifically for the owl species before acquiring the pet.
Buy Supplies
Obtain all needed housing elements, perches, nest boxes, food dishes, toys, etc in advance.
Research Proper Diet
Learn the ideal whole prey diet for the species and establish relationships with suppliers if needed.
Invest in Care Resources
Purchase books, online courses, and consult with avian specialists to learn proper owl care.
Puppy-Proof Environment
Ensure the owl’s enclosure and any areas they will interact in are fully owl-proofed for safety.
Find an Avian Vet
Have an avian specialist vet selected who has experience with captive owls.
Set Up Permit
Complete all legal paperwork and acquire permits for pet owl ownership if mandated.
Animal-Proof Other Pets
Secure cats, small dogs, rodents, birds, reptiles, and fish from having any contact.
Child-Proof
Keep children safe by only allowing supervised interactions in a controlled manner.
Initial Pet Owl Transition to a New Home
The first days and weeks bringing home a new pet owl require care to help the owl adjust:
Transport Safely
Use an escape-proof travel crate covered with a towel for the transport and monitor for stress.
Establish Routine
Gradually transition the owl from its previous schedule to match the new home environment and owner’s routine.
Provide Security
Allow the owl to choose a favored perch or nesting area and retreat there when needed in the initial adjustment phase.
Limit Handling
Avoid overhandling the owl at first, allowing it time to become comfortable and familiar with new people and surroundings.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Use hand-feeding favored treats to positively reinforce interacting with the owner and establishing a bond.
Enable Supervised Exploration
Once settled, allow the owlet supervised time flying and roaming their enclosure and home to acclimate.
Introduce Gradually
Slowly introduce other household members, children, or pets to allow the owl to become accustomed to them.
Establish Avian Vet
Schedule an initial check-up with the avian vet 1-2 weeks after arrival to confirm health.
Be Patient
Give the owl several weeks to months to fully transition without pressure and on their own comfort level.
Tips for Bonding with a New Pet Owl
Key tactics for creating a strong bond with a newly acquired pet owl include:
Spend Time Near Enclosure
Sit near the enclosure regularly so the owl becomes comfortable with your presence.
Hand Feed Treats
Offering favored foods by hand helps the owl associate you with positives.
Encourage Exploration
Allow supervised time outside the enclosure to flutter nearby you and investigate.
Positive Reinforcement
Reward desirable behaviors like voluntary close proximity with treats, pets, or toys.
Speak Softly
Talking gently accustoms the owl to your voice and establishes communication.
Schedule Playtime
Dedicate periods for interacting with fun toys and activities with you.
Glove Train
For larger owls, work on training the owl to willingly step onto a gloved hand.
Crate Train
Accustom the owl to spending calm time in a transport crate and seeing it positively.
Respond to Calls
Reinforce the owl vocalizing to you by responding back vocally or visiting when called.
Vary Activities
Engage in a diverse mix of training, free flight, baths, enrichment, and quiet bonding time.