A beautiful African grass owl was recently treated at the Dullstroom Bird of Prey centre after a nature lover brought it in for emergency treatment.

Firth Douglas, the manager of the Dullstroom Bird of Prey Centre, said the centre is experiencing an increase in birds of prey being used as target practice.

The African grass owl is a medium-sized owl with long legs and no ear tufts. It is also known as the common grass owl. Douglas said the owl has not been released by the centre and is still being rehabilitated.

Just after the incident in February, the African Grass owl was also taken to the Dullstroom Bird of Prey Centre for bullet wound treatment.

“We have recently treated a tiny Ovambo sparrow hawk, the larger breeds like an African hawk-eagle and Wahlberg’s eagle to the apex species like the crowned eagle,” said Douglas.

“These animals have such a hard time as they are trying to survive in our mixed-up world, and to now add this senseless threat as well, are most discouraging.

“The main problem is that there is no longer a rule of law or enforcement of discipline. In my personal opinion, there are no consequences so the people shooting these birds, know they can get away with it. It is illegal to discharge an airgun in a residential area and if found they can be arrested and fined, but this rule is seldom followed through,” said Douglas.