European Eagle Owls at Tiggywinkles

We currently have two permanent European Eagle Owls here at Tiggywinkles, called Emily and James.

As European eagle owls are not classed as native to the UK, we are unable to release them, but just like our other permanent residents, they live out their lives with us in near natural surroundings whilst also benefiting from care and attention when needed. Once a year we carry out a health check to ensure they are still fit and well. This includes checking their eyes and wings. For Emily this also means giving her an updated implant to avoid breeding.

With their bright orange eyes, mottled feathers, and “ear tufts,” Eurasian Eagle-owls are visually striking animals and are among the world’s largest owls. Their large, powerful feet and strong flight make them effective hunters.

Eurasian Eagle-owls are mostly nocturnal, or active at night. They spend their days roosting, or resting, in a safe perch. It is believed that these owls can live to be around 20 years old in the wild.