What kinds of animals can you see at Screech Owl Sanctuary?

A: Screech Owl Sanctuary is home to over 70 owls from more than 30 species across the globe, ranging from the smallest to the largest owls. In addition to owls, visitors can encounter a variety of other animals including Meerkats, Alpacas, Raccoons, Black-and-white Ruffed Lemurs, Bennett's Wallabies, Pygmy Goats, Red Foxes, Emus, Ravens, and Storks.

Is Screech Owl Sanctuary wheelchair accessible?

A: Yes, Screech Owl Sanctuary is wheelchair friendly. The site features flat pathways, accessible parking, accessible toilets, and is generally pushchair friendly. Wheelchairs can also be rented for a small charge, and special assistance is available upon request.

Can visitors interact with the animals at Screech Owl Sanctuary?

A: Absolutely! Visitors can enjoy close-up interactions through daily owl talks where staff often present hand-tame owls. There are also opportunities to feed Alpacas and Pygmy Goats. For a more personal experience, individual animal encounters with owls, Meerkats, Red Foxes, Lemurs, or Wallabies can be booked for an additional charge.

ZooEngland, GB

Screech Owl Sanctuary

The Screech Owl Sanctuary, nestled in the picturesque Cornish countryside near Indian Queens, England, offers an enchanting escape into the world of owls and diverse wildlife.

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About

The Screech Owl Sanctuary, nestled in the picturesque Cornish countryside near Indian Queens, England, offers an enchanting escape into the world of owls and diverse wildlife. More than just a zoo, it's a family-owned animal park with a heartfelt mission: dedicated to the rehabilitation, conservation, and education of these majestic birds and other resident creatures. Visitors have the unique opportunity to get up close with over 70 owls representing more than 30 species from across the globe, making it one of the largest collections in the Southwest.

Beyond the captivating owl collection, the sanctuary is home to a fascinating array of other animals. You can encounter the inquisitive Meerkats, gentle Alpacas, playful Raccoons, and energetic Black-and-white Ruffed Lemurs. Daily owl talks provide insightful information on various species, from the smallest to the largest, including the famous European Eagle Owl "Joe" and the charming Tawny Owl "Bob," often seen showcasing their aerial prowess during the twice-daily flying displays. Educational animal talks also highlight other residents like Bennett's Wallabies, Pygmy Goats, and Emus, offering opportunities to learn about their behaviors and characteristics.

A visit to Screech Owl Sanctuary is a truly memorable experience for all ages, combining education with engaging interaction. It’s a chance to witness vital conservation work firsthand, enjoy thrilling flying displays, and even participate in personal animal encounters. The sanctuary's warm atmosphere, coupled with its commitment to animal welfare and public awareness, makes it a rewarding destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Unlock an interactive field guide for this spot: get the Snappit app to identify nature on the go.

The Screech Owl Sanctuary began with a personal passion in 1990, founded by Carolyn Screech. Her lifelong dedication to owls was sparked in childhood when she adopted orphaned Barn Owls. Initially starting in an allotment garden, the sanctuary grew from providing care and rehabilitation for sick and injured owls, such as "Sid," a young Barn Owl with a deformed leg. As the collection expanded and their rehabilitation efforts gained prominence, the sanctuary relocated to a larger, more suitable site in mid-Cornwall in 1994, becoming the Screech Owl Sanctuary and Animal Park known today. It has since evolved into an award-winning attraction, maintaining its core mission of demonstrating passion for the natural environment through rehabilitation, conservation, and education.

What to do here

Attend scheduled flying displays and talks. Explore the aviaries to see diverse owl species from around the world. Visit the enclosures for other animals, including Alpacas and Pygmy Goats that you can feed. Enjoy the outdoor adventure play area and take a stroll along the nature walk. Consider booking a personal animal encounter for a more intimate experience.

Seasonal info

During poor weather, flying displays take place in an indoor barn. The sanctuary implements Avian Influenza precautions, which may include walk-through disinfectant footbaths at the entrance. Opening hours vary by season, typically 10 am-4 pm in spring/autumn and 10 am-5 pm in summer.

Accessibility

The sanctuary is designed to be highly accessible, with flat, wheelchair-friendly pathways throughout the site. It offers accessible parking, accessible toilets, and baby changing facilities. Wheelchairs can be rented for a small fee, and special assistance is available. The site is also pushchair friendly.

Don't miss

The twice-daily flying displays featuring owls like the European Eagle Owl and Tawny Owl are a must-see. Interactive owl talks, where you can learn about and get close to hand-tame owls, are also very popular. Don't miss the animal talks about Meerkats, Lemurs, and Raccoons.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Check Daily Schedule

Upon arrival, check the schedule for owl talks, flying displays, and animal talks to plan your visit around these engaging events.

Book Encounters in Advance

If you're interested in a personal owl or animal encounter, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during busy periods, to ensure availability.

Follow Brown Signs

When driving, ignore your SatNav near the sanctuary and follow the brown and white tourist signs off the A30 (Highgate Hill Junction), as road layouts may have changed.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The sanctuary has pathways and a nature trail, so comfortable footwear is advisable for exploring the entire site.

Bring a Camera

With stunning owls, other charismatic animals, and engaging displays, there are countless opportunities for memorable photographs.

No Dogs Policy

Only pre-booked assistance dogs are allowed on site. Please leave your pets at home.

Frequently asked questions

: A: Screech Owl Sanctuary is home to over 70 owls from more than 30 species across the globe, ranging from the smallest to the largest owls. In addition to owls, visitors can encounter a variety of other animals including Meerkats, Alpacas, Raccoons, Black-and-white Ruffed Lemurs, Bennett's Wallabies, Pygmy Goats, Red Foxes, Emus, Ravens, and Storks.
: A: Yes, Screech Owl Sanctuary is wheelchair friendly. The site features flat pathways, accessible parking, accessible toilets, and is generally pushchair friendly. Wheelchairs can also be rented for a small charge, and special assistance is available upon request.
: A: Absolutely! Visitors can enjoy close-up interactions through daily owl talks where staff often present hand-tame owls. There are also opportunities to feed Alpacas and Pygmy Goats. For a more personal experience, individual animal encounters with owls, Meerkats, Red Foxes, Lemurs, or Wallabies can be booked for an additional charge.