Owlproject.org, in partnership with Crawford Preparatory School in Benmore, recently hosted a barn owl ringing day as part of its barn owl release programme.

The young owls were originally rescued from the roof of a home by SPCA Randburg and brought into the care of Owlproject.org. Through the organisation’s structured rehabilitation process, they were prepared for release into the wild.

Read more: Rescued barn owls ringed for conservation

According to Arjen van Zwieten, a certified bird ringer, Crawford Preparatory School proved to be the ideal site for this initiative. “With its welcoming environment and the installation of owl boxes, the school grounds offer an excellent habitat for barn owls.”

Zwieten added that these birds play a vital ecological role as natural rodent controllers, providing a safe, poison-free alternative to managing rat populations on farms and in urban areas.

Also read: EcoSolutions rings owlet in Bryanston

During the ringing event, each owl was fitted with a uniquely numbered metal identification ring by Zwieten, supported by Owlproject.org team members, alongside Crawford educator Nina Bloom, who has been instrumental in facilitating the owl release programme at the school.

The owls, now around two months old, are completing a 21-day soft-release process. Itumeleng Maroga, the OwlProject.org co-ordinator, said: “This method allows them to adapt gradually to their new environment while still receiving food support, significantly improving their chances of long-term survival.”

She pointed out that this programme is not only about conservation; it’s about changing perceptions and educating communities on the importance of owls in both urban and rural ecosystems.

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