 The Harry Potter bandwagon has increased the interest in owls |
Wildlife experts are reporting a huge increase in the number of owls being bought as presents but then dumped. Their popularity is thought to be linked to J K Rowling's Harry Potter books, as they feature the young wizard keeping an owl as a pet.
But the birds, which can live for up to 30 years, are being put at risk when owners tire of them and release them.
David Luther, a senior wildlife ranger in Leicestershire, said owls need a lot of work and to be cared for properly.
He said: "If birds of prey, or owls, are kept correctly and you can give them the time, then there is nothing wrong with that.
"I love the birds and it is all the more saddening to see them kept in rabbit hutches or something along these lines.
One-Minute World News 
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