The Malthouse Care Home in Dorset recently had the pleasure of hosting a unique and educational experience for residents, when Alan from Pitcombe Rock Falconry brought in five beautiful owls for a special visit. The event was an absolute hit, with residents enjoying the opportunity to get up close with these magnificent birds of prey.
Pitcombe Rock Falconry is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of birds of prey. With a team of dedicated volunteers, they currently care for around 70 birds, many of which have been rescued from difficult circumstances. Some of these birds are fortunate enough to have not needed rescue, and they play an important role in educational programmes. These birds are hand-reared to help educate the public on the importance of conservation and rehabilitation.
The visit featured several owls, including Winston, a 22-year-old barn owl who has defied the odds and is still going strong in his twilight years. Barn owls are known for being silent flyers, making them one of the quietest birds in the world, and they primarily feed on rodents like voles.
Residents also met Maple, an Indian Scops Owl, one of the smallest owls. Maple, born at Pitcombe Rock Falconry, eats primarily insects but will also consume small birds and rodents. Maple’s parents were rescued from a situation where they could no longer be cared for, and now she serves as a winged ambassador for the rescue organisation.
Resident Doug said, “It was marvellous to see such lovely birds,” and Leah, Activities Coordinator at the Malthouse, shared her thoughts on the event: “It was lovely to see so many smiles on the residents’ faces. To see so many of them engaged”.
The visit was not only educational but also provided a hands-on experience for the residents, allowing them to feel and learn about the different textures of the owls’ feathers, giving them a deeper appreciation for these incredible creatures.
The Malthouse care home is committed to providing residents with enriching activities that promote learning and engagement. The visit from Pitcombe Rock Falconry was a memorable experience that brought joy and valuable insight into the world of owls and conservation.
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