10:10am Friday 12th March 2010
SWINDON residents have been asked to keep their eyes peeled after a tame European eagle owl escaped from its Lower Stratton home.
The speckled brown bird, pictured, stands three foot high, and flew away at around 9pm on Sunday.
As it has been bred in captivity, the owl is unlikely to attack humans although its owner, who does not wish to be named, has warned that it may attack animals such as cats and dogs.
The eagle owl is a large, powerful animal with dark orange eyes, long ear tufts and brown plumage. It is commonly kept in captivity and, since the 18th century, the species has regularly escaped or has been released in the UK. At present there are only a few established pairs that successfully breed and these are mainly found in northern England.
The public are warned not to approach the owl if they spot it but to call Wiltshire Police on 0845 408 7000 or the RSPCA North Wiltshire branch on 01793 640136 or 0300 1234 999.
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