n the United States, it is generally illegal to keep owls as pets. Owls are protected under federal and state laws, and owning them without a permit is a violation of the law. In addition, owls require specialized care and attention that most people are not equipped to provide.
Under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, it is illegal to possess or sell migratory birds or their parts, including owls. This law protects all native bird species, including owls, from harm, harassment, or capture. Violating this law can result in significant fines and penalties.
Even in states where it may be legal to keep certain types of owls as pets, obtaining the necessary permits can be difficult and costly. In most cases, only licensed wildlife rehabilitators, educators, or researchers are allowed to keep owls in captivity, and they must meet specific requirements and regulations.
For example, in Texas, it is illegal to possess native owls as pets without a permit. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department issues permits for the possession of non-releasable owls for educational and wildlife rehabilitation purposes. However, these permits are only issued to licensed wildlife rehabilitators or educators who meet specific criteria and have the necessary facilities to care for the owls.
Similarly, in Florida, it is illegal to possess most native species of owls as pets. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission issues permits for the possession of non-releasable owls for educational or research purposes, but these permits are only issued to licensed wildlife rehabilitators, educators, or researchers who meet specific requirements.
In some cases, certain types of owls may be legal to keep as pets if they are not native to the United States. For example, some species of owls, such as the Eurasian eagle owl or the barn owl, are commonly kept as pets in other parts of the world and may be legal to own in some states. However, even in these cases, obtaining the necessary permits and providing appropriate care for the owls can be a challenging and expensive process.
In general, owning an owl as a pet is not recommended, as they require specialized care and attention that most people are not equipped to provide. Owls are wild animals and are not suited for life in captivity. They require large flight cages or aviaries, a specific diet, and regular veterinary care. In addition, owls are nocturnal animals and require a dark and quiet environment during the day to rest and sleep.
If you are interested in learning more about owls or working with them in a professional capacity, there are many opportunities available through wildlife rehabilitation centers, educational programs, and research organizations. These opportunities allow you to work with owls in a safe and responsible manner and contribute to their conservation and protection in the wild