Eagle Owl Loose in Wiltshire!

An escaped owl may now be so hungry it could resort to killing dogs and cats. The three-foot European eagle owl, with a wingspan of about six feet, has been missing from its Lower Stratton home since 9pm on Sunday. But despite being bred in captivity, the giant may resort to natural instincts to satisfy its hunger. A Wiltshire police spokeswoman said: “As the owl has been missing since Sunday it will by now be very hungry and could attack small dogs or cats in order to eat. Our advice to owners of small dogs is to keep an eye on their pet and to keep it on the lead.” There is no suggestion that the bird of prey would swoop on children, especially as it has been familiar with children since it was a chick.

However unlikely it may be to attack humans, police have warned members of the public not to approach the bird if they see it. Instead they should contact the police or RSPCA.

Report taken from Wiltshire Times website dated 12th March