SPCA receives eco-friendly homes for owls

EcoSolutions and Owlproject.org celebrated Mandela Day in style as they worked together to donate and install owl boxes to seven SPCA branches around Gauteng, including the Roodepoort/ Krugersdorp SPCA.

“This initiative honours the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela through a project rooted in environmental sustainability, wildlife protection, and deep appreciation for the tireless work done by the SPCA,” said Cayla Brown from EcoSolutions.

According to Cayla, EcoSolutions, Owlproject.org, and the SPCA have shared a collaborative relationship since the early 2000s, working together on ethical wildlife management initiatives that benefit both communities and ecosystems. The team installed each owl box that was donated at each SPCA facility. The purpose of this, according to Cayla, was to introduce a natural, poison-free method of rodent control and provide safe nesting sites for owls.

“Owls are incredibly efficient predators, capable of eating thousands of rodents each year. Encouraging their presence is a significant step towards lowering rodent populations without using dangerous pesticides and poisons. This campaign comes at an important time as South African wildlife celebrates the success of the national ban on popular rodenticides. These poisons, which were once widely used, now represent a severe hazard to non-target species, such as owls, who sometimes die from secondary poisoning after consuming tainted mice,” Cayla noted.

“There is no such thing as owl-friendly poison, and what we put into the ecosystem inevitably works its way up the food chain. Our approach, using nature to balance nature, ensures that predators like owls are protected, not harmed, by our pest control efforts. Our team and Owlproject.org are proud to stand in support of the SPCA, recognising its continued dedication to animal welfare, rescue, and education, “Cayla expressed.

This Mandela Day, the donated owl boxes are more than just nesting sites; they are symbols of collaboration, sustainability, and shared responsibility for a healthier environment.

The Roodepoort/ Krugersdorp SPCA relies on the community’s help and donations, from food and medical supplies to upkeep facilities, to continue the work they do in caring for and protecting animals. If you would like to find out more information about the SPCA and how you can get involved, send an email to manager@rdptspca.co.za or call 011 672 0448.