Suffolk Owl Sanctuary at Stonham Barns Park at Stonham Aspal launches Easter events while urging public to seek advice before rescuing owlets

A popular owl sanctuary has launched its Easter activities while urging the public to seek advice before attempting to rescue owlets.

The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary and Nature Centre at Stonham Barns Park has launched its Easter programme running from today until Monday, April 21 with activities for families and animal lovers alike.

Visitors can take part in an Easter Egg Hunt trail, enjoy daily flying displays, learn more about some of the sanctuary’s resident creatures during meerkat, porcupine and armadillo talks and there’s also a colouring competition for younger guests.

Dolly, hospital lead at the sanctuary, said: “We're excited to welcome everyone to join us this Easter at Suffolk Owl Sanctuary.

“We hope you'll enjoy watching the birds flying outside in the sunshine and exploring the centre to find all of the hidden Easter Eggs.

We'd also like to highlight the important work of our Raptor Hospital.”

As spring gets under way, the sanctuary is also urging the public to be cautious before picking up young owlets found on the ground — especially tawny owlets, which are often mistakenly thought to be abandoned.

“At this time of year many owlets are brought in by members of the public,” Dolly said.

“If you do find an owlet this spring, please check out our website or call us on 03456 807 897 to find out more information before bringing them in.”

What to know about tawny owlets:

- At three to four weeks old, tawny owlets begin ‘branching’ — leaving the nest and hopping between branches. Sometimes they end up on the ground, but this is completely normal.

- They can usually climb back up and their parents will continue to care for them.

- If you find one, gently place it on a high branch and leave it be.

Exceptions:

- If the owlet is injured, near a road, or too young to branch, it may need help.

- Other UK owl species (like barn or little owls) on the ground likely need rescuing.

The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary is a charitable organisation that treats and rehabilitates sick and injured native birds of prey. It’s home to over 80 birds, including owls, falcons and vultures, and offers regular flying displays and educational activities for the public.

The centre also runs a popular animal adoption scheme, with options starting from £5 per month. Owls currently available for adoption include Cobweb the barn owl, Titch the tawny owl, Cecil the spectacled owl and Tura the Siberian eagle owl — as well as mammals from the Nature Centre.

In addition to the birds, visitors can explore the sanctuary’s Woodland Walk, bug hotels, red squirrels and the recently introduced porcupines and armadillos. The site also features indoor and outdoor play areas and an education centre.

For more information, visit the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary website or call 03456 680 7897.

The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary is open year-round and relies on donations and public support to keep its services running.