by Poppy » 30 Jul 2008, 17:06
Mexican Striped Owl (Asio clamator)
The Mexican Striped Owl is found native to Central and South
America. This strange looking species of owl is related to the
British Short Eared Owl, and is very adaptable to a number of
habitats, including forest, farmland, rainforest, suburban and
urban areas. They also eat a varied diet, from small rodents
and birds, to pigeons and doves, to reptiles, with spiny lizards
being a particular favourite. They are also intriguing in that they
are one of the few species of Owls who will roost communally
in one tree - one count saw as many as twenty-six Mexican
Striped Owls living together in the same tree. This is unusually
as owls are more commonly solitary or live with their mate
only, and will fiercely defend their territory from any intruders.
While the Mexican Striped Owl does not hunt in groups, it is
certainly more sociable than most owls to live in one. This
may be why Nimue is such a friendly (if very noisy!) creature.
He loves attention, and gives his happy scream to visitors
all day long. He is also very special as one of our two Wedding
Ring Delivery Owls who will happily deliver your wedding ring
to the Best Man in the Chapel, outside or on the Quarterdeck
in the Castle. Nimue is also flown in the Ultimate Falconry
Experience, the Owl Encounter and the Children's Activities.
He is available for handling in the Regal Greeting.