Not only is it illegal to have an owl as a pet, but it wouldn’t be a good idea. Owls are birds of prey, a term used to describe birds with sharp talons and curved beaks that hunt small animals. This would mean that any animal in your home, such as a cat, could get hurt by the bird’s claws. Additionally, some owls are extremely territorial and have no problem defending themselves––and attacking you.
There are many other birds that share characteristics with owls that make better pets.
It’s Illegal to Have a Pet Owl
The International Owl Center explains that in the United States (and many other countries) it’s illegal to have a pet owl. Permits are only issued to people who keep owls for rehabilitation, educational, or breeding purposes. These individuals are generally biologists, scientists, and other wildlife professionals who are dedicated to seeing owls thrive in their natural habitats. Even with a permit, the licensee doesn’t actually own the owl; technically, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service does, and it can claim the owl at any time.
Still, you don’t have to abandon your hopes of interacting with owls. Some reputable wildlife sanctuaries have volunteer opportunities, where you could learn valuable skills that go hand-in-hand with working with owls. You can also visit owls at zoos or see them in their natural habitat. Be warned: owls can be aggressive during nesting and mating season. There’s a reason why some signs in owl country read: “If you hear a hoot, scoot!”
You Could Face Criminal Penalties for Illegal Owl-keeping
Owls are considered a migratory species under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. If you’re found guilty of violating this law, you could face hefty criminal penalties. For example, if you’re convicted of a misdemeanor, you could be fined a maximum of $5,000 and sentenced to no more than six months in jail. If you’re convicted of a felony, the penalties increase, posing the possibility of a $250,000 fine and not more than two years of imprisonment.
There is no room for good intentions or misinterpretation of the law when it comes to migratory birds such as owls. Don’t risk your future by keeping an owl as a pet!
Owls Would Make Terrible Pets Anyway
You’re not missing out by being unable to keep an owl in your home. These birds would make unsuitable pets because:
- You would have to replicate their feeding habits. Many owls live for the thrill of the hunt, using their heightened senses to capture rodents, lizards, and even small birds. Offering a frozen pinkie mouse or pellets would not sate your owl’s natural instincts, leading to stress and malnutrition.
- Owls make a lot of noise. Owls do a lot more than hoot. They can make a range of vocalizations that could keep you up at night. If your owl imprints on you, they’ll expect you to hoot, too!
- Owls are messy, messy creatures. Not only do owls produce a lot of waste, but often, they’ll throw up bones and other debris from animals they’ve swallowed whole. They can also shed dozens of feathers while molting. Ask any zookeeper, and they’ll tell you that owls’ enclosures require non-stop cleaning!
Owls are not like parrots and other pet birds that bond with their owners and enjoy socialization. They will retain their natural instincts and could seriously injure you if threatened.
What Should I Do After Finding an Owl?
If you happen to find an owl, your next steps depend on many factors. For instance, if you find a baby bird, and it has a fuzzy head but visible feathering, it’s a fledgling, and it doesn’t need your help. It’ll learn to fly within a few days, and its parents are likely close by feeding it. You would only need to intervene if the owlet is in danger (such as near a busy street), or both of its parents have been killed. In these situations, the International Owl Center recommends throwing a blanket over the owl, then placing it in a cardboard box. Close the box by folding the flaps or with tape; you don’t want the owl to escape and start flying around while you’re driving!
Your next step is to take the owl to a wildlife rehabilitator. You can find one online. Many states have numbers you can call listed on government websites. While in transit, you want to minimize causing the owl stress. Try not to jostle the box or interact with the bird too much. Keep the box as still as possible and prioritize getting to a wildlife rehab center. Do not, under any circumstances, take the owl home and try to care for it yourself. Not only do you risk injury, but the owl could need help beyond what you can offer.
Pet Birds Similar to Owls
If you want to keep an owl as a pet, it’s important to identify why. This could play an instrumental role in helping you find a pet bird that meets your expectations and lifestyle. For example, you may want an owl because they’re known for being intelligent. In that case, you could enjoy having an African grey parrot. These birds are extremely intelligent and beloved for their problem-solving abilities and ability to mimic human speech. While parrots don’t understand what they’re saying, it still makes for entertainment!
You may also be interested in an owl because you enjoy large birds. In that instance, you have many options. Macaws, cockatoos, and eclectus parrots can also reach modest sizes, with the heaviest of these birds tipping the scales at just over five pounds. Note that while many of these birds are available in commercial pet stores, bird ownership is a big commitment! With proper care, these animals can live for decades.
