Bird of prey fundi believes spotted eagle owl seen in Secunda has been imprinted

SECUNDA – A seemingly tame spotted eagle owl has been seen around Secunda, especially around Gamtoos Street, during the past few weeks.

Ms Trinka Janse van Rensburg sent photos to Ridge Times of the large bird perched on their neighbour’s wall.

The owl did not seem to mind being close to humans and was not phased by the neighbour’s outstretched hand.

“She saw the bird several times up in the trees behind her house and called us to have a look.”

Although owls are nocturnal, this one appears to be awake in the day too. Ridge Times approached birds of prey specialist, Ms Frith Douglas who is the manager of Dullstroom Bird of Prey Centre, for her opinion.

“This spotted eagle owl has obviously been illegally raised by someone and been released thinking it will survive,” said Ms Douglas.

According to her, the bird of prey looks in good health and she does not suspect it is approachable due to illness.

“It is definitely an imprint as it can be approached very close up,” she said after studying the photos.

“A very sad situation indeed,” exclaimed Ms Douglas.

She suggested that the bird be caught and taken to a licensed rehabilitation centre that can properly assess it and make a professional decision.

“It will not survive in the wild and, as it does not recognise its own species, it will never breed.

“It will also approach humans for food and as many people are superstitious, it may well come to harm,” explained Ms Douglas.

She said the spotted eagle own must not be fed or left in the wild, because it may start looking at cats and other easy prey, such as pets, as food.

“If the public does try to feed it, the bird might not get the correct diet,” concluded Ms Douglas.