Rescued barn owls prepare for release at Steyn City Equestrian Centre
The rescued barn owls are one step closer to freedom, as Owlproject.org, in partnership with Steyn City Equestrian Centre, hosted an owl ringing day to support safe, eco-friendly rodent control and conservation education.
The rescued barn owls are now one step closer to a life in the wild, thanks to a collaboration between Owlproject.org and Steyn City Equestrian Centre, which recently hosted an owl ringing day as part of their structured 21-day release programme.
The owls, recovered from the roof of a home in Daveyton by Benoni SPCA, were collected by Valentino Crowder, on behalf of Owlproject.org, and brought into care to prepare them for release. The Steyn City Equestrian Centre provided the perfect setting for the release programme, as stables with owl boxes offer an ideal habitat for barn owls, which naturally helps control rodent populations without the need for poison.
“These owls are skilled hunters that offer a sustainable, eco-friendly solution for rodent control in urban and rural settings,” explained Itumeleng Maroga, of Owlproject.org.
During the event, each owl was fitted with a uniquely numbered metal identification ring by certified bird ringer Arjen van Zwieten, supported by Maroga and Ntsane Mothibeli, from Owlproject.org. These rings contribute to long-term conservation research and data collection, providing valuable insights into barn owl movements and survival in the wild.
The owls, now approximately two and a half months old, will complete the 21-day release programme that allows them to acclimatise to their new environment, while still receiving food support. This increases their chances of survival and independence in the wild.
“This programme is not only about conservation,” said Maroga. “It’s about shifting mindsets and educating communities on the importance of owls in urban and rural ecosystems.
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“The initiative is part of a broader environmental education campaign aimed at dispelling myths and misconceptions about owls, while fostering greater public appreciation for these critical birds of prey.
“As a registered non-profit organisation, Owlproject.org relies on public donations to continue its work in schools and communities, raising awareness about the vital role owls play in maintaining ecological balance.”
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