Jazz, a four-year-old European eagle owl, disappeared at 1400 BST on Saturday in Valentines Park, Ilford.

He flew to a nearby rooftop, but when some crows went for him he flew off in a "distressed state" - last seen heading towards the town centre.

The owl's owner, Mark Triphook, said that when Jazz got hungry he would hunt rabbits, cats and small dogs to feed.

The dark feathered bird is 20 inches tall with a six foot wingspan.

Mr Triphook said: "He's very good natured which means he's not frightened of people which is the downside when he's hungry because he won't be scared off.

"He was fed before he disappeared so he's gone without food for three days. They can normally go without food for a little while before he gets desperately hungry.

"But he's always been well fed so he's not used to going without food."

A police spokesman said: "We advise people not to approach him as he could be dangerous if threatened."