SASOLBURG.- Owlproject.org partnered with Kopanelang Thuto Primary School in Zamdela, Sasolburg recently.

The team  visited the school last Friday, to provide an educational owl talk and assist the school with an ongoing owl-related concern on the premises after receiving a call from one of the teachers at the end of  February concerning owls that had found a home in the roof of the school hall.

The teacher raised concerns about the school property being damaged by the residence of owls.

Itumeleng Maroga, Project Coordinator said that as Owlproject.org they were happy that the school reached out to them and did not have any intention of harming the owls or removing them from the school, but rather looked for a solution that would benefit all parties.

” The visit forms part of Owlproject.org’s broader mission to promote awareness, conservation, and peaceful coexistence between communities and owls.”

During the visit, Owlproject.org  engaged with the  learners and staff through  an informative talk about owls, their role in the ecosystem, and how to safely and respectfully live alongside these important birds of prey.

In response to reports of owls being present on the school grounds, Owlproject.org also donated and installed a barn owl box.

The box is meant to  provide a safe and appropriate nesting space for the birds, helping to guide them away from areas where they may cause concern while still allowing them to remain in the environment where they play a valuable role controlling rodent populations.

“Owls are often misunderstood, yet they are incredibly beneficial to communities, especially in areas where rodents can become a problem,” said Maroga.

“By educating learners and providing practical solutions like owl boxes, we hope to turn fear into understanding and appreciation.”

”The session given to learners was an opportunity to ask questions, learn fascinating facts about owls, and understand why these nocturnal birds are vital to maintaining a balanced ecosystem. We are truly grateful for the visit said,” Mr Motsamai- a teacher at the school.

The initiative also highlighted the importance of environmental education in schools and encouraged young people to become ambassadors of local wildlife.

Community members interested in donating, learning more about owls and the work being done are encouraged to follow Owlproject.org online.