Owls are majestic birds that captivate people with their large, forward-facing eyes and round faces. While they may seem like cool pets, owning an owl has many requirements and is regulated. Only certain owl species can be owned, and they require permits and proper housing. This article will explore what kinds of owls are legal to own as pets in the United States.
Laws Regarding Owning Owls
There are federal and state laws regulating the possession of owls in the United States. These laws were created to protect wild owl populations and ensure the proper care of pet owls.
At the federal level, owning any native owl species is illegal under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act without the proper permits. This includes popular species like the Great Horned Owl and Eastern Screech Owl. Only non-native species are allowed.
States have additional regulations on owning owls. Many states prohibit owning any owls as pets, while others have licensing requirements. Some states restrict certain owl species only. It’s important to check your state’s regulations before getting an owl.
Owl Species Allowed as Pets
Here are some of the most common owl species that can be owned as pets with the proper licensing:
Eurasian Eagle Owl
The Eurasian Eagle Owl is one of the largest owl species, with females reaching up to 2 feet tall with wingspans over 6 feet. They have mottled brown and black feathers with piercing orange eyes. These imposing owls are found across Europe and Asia.
Eurasian Eagle Owls are allowed in some U.S. states with the proper exotic animal permits. They have demanding space and dietary requirements to own safely.
Great Horned Owl
The Great Horned Owl is a native species recognized by their prominent ear tufts. They have grey-brown plumage with white throat feathers. Great Horned Owls are found across North and South America.
Great Horned Owls born in captivity can be owned with special permits in some states. However, they cannot be taken from the wild.
Snowy Owl
Snowy owls are native to the Arctic regions of North America and Eurasia. Their dense white plumage helps them camouflage in the snow. They have round heads without ear tufts.
In the United States, Snowy Owls bred in captivity can be owned with the proper permits. Their bright white appearance makes them popular display birds.
Northern Hawk Owl
The Northern Hawk Owl lives across Canada and Alaska. They get their name from their long tails and hawk-like hunting behavior. Their brown plumage features white spotting on the wings and bars on the underside.
Some states allow captive-bred Northern Hawk Owls with exotic animal licenses. Their active nature requires lots of space to fly.
Northern Saw-Whet Owl
The Northern Saw-Whet Owl is a compact species found in wooded areas across North America. They get their name from the shrill call that resembles a whetting saw. Their brown plumage features white mottled on the wings and a pale facial disk.
In states that allow non-releasable wild birds as pets, Northern Saw-Whet Owls can be kept with rehabilitation permits after being injured.
Barn Owl
The Barn Owl is found worldwide in fields, barns, and other structures. Their heart-shaped white face and light brown back make them easily recognizable. Barn Owls are cavity nesters and excellent hunters.
Barn Owls born in captivity can be owned with exotic animal permits in some states. Their rodent-hunting skills are valued for pest control.
Eastern Screech Owl
Eastern Screech Owls are small, common owls found in woods east of the Rocky Mountains. They are named for their shivering, screeching calls. Their plumage is variable but generally mottled gray with streaks.
Injured, rehabilitated Eastern Screech Owls can be kept in some states with educational permits. Their small size makes them easier to provide appropriate housing for.
Eurasian Scops Owl
The Eurasian Scops Owl is a small species found across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. They have mottled brown plumage with ear tufts and yellow eyes. The Eurasian Scops Owl hunts insects and small vertebrates.
These owls are sometimes kept as pets with exotic animal licenses. However, their specialized diet of insects and reptiles can be difficult to provide in captivity.
Permits and Regulations for Owning Owls
Owning owls has many regulations at both state and federal levels. Here are some common permitting requirements:
– Exotic Animal License: States that allow non-native owls require specialized exotic animal possession permits. These demonstrate you can properly care for the birds.
– Captive-Bred Documentation: Proof of captive-breeding is needed to own species like Snowy, Great Horned, and Barn Owls. Wild-caught owls are illegal.
– Rehabilitation Permit: For native injured owls, special permits are required for keeping unreleasable birds. You must demonstrate training in providing care.
– Educational Use Permit: Special licenses allow owning owls for educational purposes like nature programs and zoo displays.
– Endangered Species Permit: Owls listed under the Endangered Species Act like the Mexican Spotted Owl require additional federal permits for captive-breeding.
– Veterinary Certificates: Some states require certificates of health from veterinarians to own pet birds. Annual exams may also be mandatory.
Proper licensing demonstrates you can meet the complex needs of an owl. Permits require regular facility inspections to renew.
Is It Ethical to Keep Owls as Pets?
While it may be legal to own certain owl species, there are ethical concerns with keeping wild birds as pets:
– Owls are highly intelligent, social animals that thrive in natural settings. Pet owls may suffer from boredom, stress and behavioral issues.
– Providing appropriate enclosures and enrichment is difficult, as owls have complex physical and psychological needs. Most households cannot properly care for them.
– Owls require specialized diets of whole prey animals. Feeding pet owls can be expensive, difficult and messy.
– Illicit breeding and trade of wild owls occurs due to high demand for pet owls. Legal captive breeding struggles to meet this demand sustainably.
– Native owl species play vital roles in their ecosystems. Removing them can harm food webs and species dependent on owls.
Many experts consider the cons of owl ownership to outweigh the benefits for the birds. More suitable options for interacting with owls include supporting avian rescue centers, nature preserves and educational programs.
Caring for Pet Owls
Owning owls is a major commitment requiring specialized knowledge and facilities. Here are some care essentials:
Enclosures:
– Minimum dimensions 10′ x 10′ x 10′ for large species, smaller for little owls
– Double-door access to prevent escapes
– Proper ventilation, humidity and temperature control
– Natural perches at varying heights
– Nest boxes for sleeping and breeding
– Outdoor aviaries for flight needed
Diet:
– Whole prey like mice, rats, chicks, rabbits, fish
– Dietary supplements like calcium and vitamins
– Fresh water always available
Enrichment:
– Plenty of room for flying and roosting at height
– Toys and puzzles to exercise the mind
– Auditory and visual stimulation
– Training and handling for socialization
– Regular veterinary care for health monitoring
Owls are intelligent, active animals requiring specialized facilities and husbandry. They are a lifelong commitment.
Where to Acquire an Owl Legally
It is important only to acquire owls from legal, ethical sources. Avoid websites or breeders selling owls illegally.
Reputable places to find owls include:
– Licensed breeders – Ensure proper licensing and permits are in place
– Avian rescues – Adopt unreleasable wild owls in need of care
– Universities – Some universities breed owls for educational use
– Zoos & wildlife centers – Excess stock may be available but highly competitive
– Raptor rehabilitation centers – Injured owls can potentially be placed in permitted homes
– State conservation agencies – Agency permits sometimes allow private ownership of rehab owls
– Exotic animal auctions – Legal auction sites facilitate trade in exotic animals like owls
Acquire any pet owl ethically and legally to avoid contributing to illicit wildlife trade. Expect long waitlists and intensive screening when sourcing owls legitimately.
Owls are Challenging Pets Requiring Proper Care
Owning owls can be appealing due to their unique appearance, natural behaviors and ties to culture. However, the reality of caring for these complex birds is incredibly demanding. Very few people have the resources and dedication needed to meet an owl’s needs in captivity.
While certain species are legal to own with the right licensing, acquiring an owl should not be taken lightly. Their specialized care and facilities require substantial commitment. Ethical concerns over wildlife trafficking and ecosystem impacts add to the complexity of owning wild owls.
Those passionate about owls can support these fascinating birds through less intensive means than pet ownership. Donating to avian rescue and research, volunteering at rehabilitation centers and enjoying owls in their natural habitats are rewarding alternatives. These allow appreciation of owls while supporting owl conservation.
