But I’m sure it’s just because we humans are so annoying
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Huge stompers on these bad boys
They’re called eagle owls for reason.
It’s funny, in my language we call them European Oohoo’s, for the sound they make 😆
In German they are named Uhu which is essentially the same.
Grumpy, but somehow also majestic. Maybe that look is “superiority.”
You’d be grumpy too if you were tied to a post by your feet
I understand your concerns, and in the case of things like owl cafes or “pet” raptors, I totally agree.
This was at a falconry center, and while I don’t know Dutch law, I can only assume it’s equal or better than US law, which is very strict on how these birds must be cared for.
With licensed handlers working with these birds, if you think of the straps as seat belts, that would probably give you a better idea how they’re used.
They’re not tied when in their enclosure. They’re not so much restrained when on the glove, as it is to keep them from getting spooked or into a situation they could be hurt.
There are also longer leads if they do need to be put on a perch in the open, but again, it doesn’t so much restrict them moving around and being comfortable, it’s to keep them from getting into hazards or hunting things that might have been exposed to poison and such.
So the majority of the time, they’re not restricted, other than when they are on glove to move them or to educate people on birds. These are all falconry birds, and letting them go off and fly is the whole point of keeping them.
Ah ok, thank you for the clarification and that does make me feel better about it, though it’s still something I will admittedly always have some discomfort towards.
No worries! It has been really fascinating learning all the protections that many of these animals receive.
As I’ve gotten used to going around and seeing many of these animals, I’ve started talking more and more to the people in charge of their care and discussing with them all the regulations they need to abide by.
Now I also volunteer at a wild animal rescue, and there is a ton of effort involved in their daily care to keep them happy and healthy.
The majority of people I’d like to say are going through all this because of their love and respect for these animals.
It’s good to see you caring for the animals’happiness as well, as too many people still don’t treat animals as they should, as fellow living beings.
They weren’t tied, they had rings for identification (mandatory by law) and leather straps so their keeper can hold them in place at appropriate times, like when they are at risk of getting spooked
