Ever wondered what it takes to buy an owl, or if it’s even possible? You’re not alone—many animal lovers and curious minds find themselves asking how to purchase these mysterious, captivating birds.
Understanding how to buy an owl is important not only for meeting legal requirements but also for ensuring the animal’s welfare. In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential steps, share key tips, and offer insights to help you make an informed decision.
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Can You Buy an Owl? Understanding the Laws, Process, and Realities
Owls are fascinating and beautiful creatures often associated with wisdom and mystery. It’s no wonder many people wonder, “Can I have an owl as a pet?” or search for “owl for sale.” The answer, however, isn’t straightforward. Owning an owl is highly regulated and comes with significant ethical, legal, and practical responsibilities. Let’s break down everything you need to know if you’re considering the idea of purchasing or adopting an owl.
The Legal Aspects of Buying an Owl
Before you even think about welcoming an owl into your home, it’s vital to understand the legal restrictions surrounding these birds. Owls are protected by a variety of international and local laws:
- In the United States: Most native owl species are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This means you cannot buy, sell, trade, or own them as pets without specific permits. This includes well-known species like the Snowy Owl, Barn Owl, and Great Horned Owl.
- Outside the U.S.: Laws vary by country, but most nations have similar wildlife protection acts. Some countries may allow keeping certain owl species, but this almost always requires strict permits and inspections.
- Permit Requirements: If you qualify (typically as an educator, licensed falconer, or rehabilitator), be prepared for background checks, facility inspections, and ongoing reporting.
Bottom line: For most private individuals, owning a native owl as a pet is illegal. However, some exotic (non-native) species may be available for purchase, but legal compliance is still complex.
The Process: How to Legally Acquire an Owl
If you are determined and meet legal requirements, acquiring an owl involves several precise steps:
1. Research Your Local and National Regulations
- Check with wildlife authorities in your country or region.
- Determine which species, if any, can be legally owned.
- Understand permit or license requirements for keeping raptors (birds of prey).
2. Acquire Necessary Licenses
- Obtain the required permits before purchasing or adopting an owl.
- Licensing usually requires proving proper facilities, knowledge, and intent (such as falconry, education, or conservation).
- Expect annual renewals and inspections.
3. Find a Licensed Breeder or Facility
- Only purchase from breeders or aviaries licensed and authorized to sell owls legally.
- Licensed sellers will require proof of your permits before proceeding.
- Commonly available species (where legal) may include Eurasian Eagle Owls, which are non-native in some countries.
4. Consider Adopting Rather Than Buying
- Some wildlife trusts, sanctuaries, and rescue organizations offer “adopt-an-owl” programs.
- These programs often do not involve physically receiving the bird but rather supporting its care.
- Adoption is a wonderful way to support owl conservation, particularly if you cannot legally or responsibly keep an owl as a pet.
Key Factors to Consider Before Getting an Owl
Owning an owl is very different from owning a parrot or a canary. Here are the most important factors to weigh:
The Reality of Owl Ownership
- Dietary Needs
- Owls are strict carnivores. They require entire prey animals such as mice, rats, chicks, or quail—often served whole.
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Source of food must be reliable and safe for raptor consumption.
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Space Requirements
- Owls need large, secure aviaries. Tiny cages are inhumane and illegal.
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They require perching, flying, and stimulation to prevent stress and illness.
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Behavioral Traits
- Owls are not naturally affectionate. They do not bond like dogs or cats.
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Many owls are nocturnal, making them active and noisy at night.
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Longevity and Commitment
- Some owls live up to 25 years or more.
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This is a long-term commitment requiring daily care year-round.
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Veterinary Care
- Avian vets with raptor experience are rare and often expensive.
- Routine and emergency care must be planned far in advance.
Ethical Considerations
- Many experts believe owls should not be kept as pets due to their specific needs and potential for stress in captivity.
- Supporting conservation and rescue organizations is often a better way to help these remarkable birds.
Potential Benefits and Challenges
Benefits
- Education and Conservation: Licensed individuals may work with owls for educational programs or to support conservation.
- Unique Experience: Owls are intelligent and mesmerizing, offering unique insights into wild animal behavior.
Challenges
- Legal Risks: Heavy fines and bird confiscation can occur if you do not comply with all laws.
- Ethical Dilemmas: Removing owls from the wild or encouraging breeding for the pet trade can harm populations.
- Practical Difficulties: Meeting daily needs and providing proper care is significantly more demanding than most pets.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
If you are still considering acquiring an owl and do so legally, follow these guidelines:
- Visit Raptor Centers: Spend time volunteering or observing at raptor rehabilitation centers to gain firsthand knowledge.
- Invest in Professional Training: Attend courses and workshops on falconry, bird handling, and avian care.
- Secure a Proper Aviary: Your aviary should mimic a natural environment, be predator-proof, and meet all climate needs.
- Plan for Regular Food Supply: Establish a relationship with a reliable frozen prey supplier.
- Stay Up-to-date: Regulations change. Regularly review legal requirements and best practices for raptor care.
Cost Considerations: Purchase, Setup, and Shipping
Owls are costly to buy and even more costly to keep.
1. Owl Purchase Price
- Prices for legally available owl species (mostly Eurasian Eagle Owls or similar, from licensed breeders) range widely—from $1,500 to $10,000 or more depending on rarity, age, species, and training status.
2. Setup and Care Costs
- Aviary Construction: Expect several thousand dollars for a suitable aviary and equipment.
- Food: Feeding whole prey animals can cost $80–$200 per month or more.
- Medical Care: Specialized avian vet visits and emergencies can add significant expenses each year.
3. Shipping and Transportation
- Special Permits and Arrangements: Air shipping live owls requires regulatory paperwork, special carriers, and careful temperature control.
- Shipping Fees: These can add hundreds to thousands of dollars to the initial cost depending on distance and regulations.
- Local Pick-Up Preferred: Many breeders and sanctuaries require in-person pick-up due to transport stress and legal documentation.
Tip: Always budget extra for unforeseen emergencies—owl care is an ongoing, intensive investment!
Are There Safer Alternatives to Having an Owl?
Instead of owning an owl, consider supporting or interacting with them in other ways:
- Sponsor an Owl: Many owl conservation organizations offer symbolic adoptions. You can receive updates, photos, and sometimes the chance to visit.
- Volunteer: Help at a local bird rescue or raptor center.
- Attend Workshops: Learn about owls at wildlife centers and educational programs.
These options allow you to appreciate and help owls without the enormous responsibility of private ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I keep an owl as a pet in my country or state?
Generally, most native owl species are protected by law and cannot be kept as pets. Some non-native or exotic species might be available, but only with strict permits. Always check with your local wildlife authority before making any plans.
How much does it typically cost to buy and care for an owl?
Acquiring an owl legally can cost between $1,500 and $10,000 for the bird itself. Setup, food, and medical care can add thousands more annually. Shipping costs are also substantial if the owl is not local. It’s a significant financial commitment.
Are owls good pets for beginners or families with children?
No. Owls are challenging to care for, are not interactive or tame like domestic pets, and can be dangerous due to their talons and beaks. They require specialized care, and are not suitable for most households.
What should I feed a pet owl?
Owls require a diet of whole prey, such as mice, rats, chicks, or quail. Processed foods or scraps are unhealthy and can be fatal. Sourcing ethical, safe, and consistent food is vital for their health.
Is there a way to help owls without owning one?
Absolutely! You can support wildlife organizations that rehabilitate, study, or shelter owls. Volunteer at a local raptor center, sponsor an owl, or spread awareness—these actions help owls while keeping them where they belong, in the wild or under professional care.
Conclusion
Owls are incredible creatures that inspire awe and curiosity. However, their ownership is heavily restricted, ethically challenging, and practically demanding. For most people, the best way to appreciate and help these birds is through symbolic adoption, volunteering, or supporting conservation efforts. If you are passionate about owls, becoming involved in wildlife education and protection is rewarding and ensures that these magnificent birds thrive for generations to come.