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Cruelty to barn owls

Barn owl in flight

We assist the police in the enforcement of wild bird legislation and may wish to act upon any information received regarding offences involving wild barn owls.

We're principally concerned with the protection and conservation of birds in the wild and their habitats. We do receive enquiries about alleged cruelty to barn owls in captivity, but the welfare of captive birds is not an area in which we are active. 

Matters of welfare and cruelty fall within the remit of the RSPCA and SSPCA, who have an established network of inspectors experienced in these matters and backed up by the necessary veterinary expertise.

What to do

If you have evidence that law protecting wild barn owls has been broken, you should contact the local police asking for the Wildlife Liaison Officer (if available) or the RSPB Investigations Section at Sandy (01767 680551) or Edinburgh (0131 311 6500).

If you believe that captive birds are being cruelly treated, you should contact the local RSPCA branch (0870 5555 999) or SSPCA (0131 339 0222).

Last modified: 23 August 2006