Harry Potter fans buy pet owls, then dump them
Owls are becoming popular pets thanks to Harry Potter, but what happens to them once the fantasy fades?
PET OWLS: Owl ownership has increased since the release of the Harry Potter films. (Photo: Sportsphoto Ltd./Allstar/Globe Photos) 
Comments
I feel really bad you shouldn't, own an owl with out being ready to put up with the work. I really wouldnt recommend people to get owls because they are A LOT of work an need special care. You should only get one if you understand the needs and have researched. They need big and pricy enclosers.
Sooo ignorant! Do some research silly people! Owls are amazing beautiful animals, one of my favourite, but they are shocking pets! They require raw meat everyday, need constant stimulation, they destroy furniture given any chance, and they are in heat for 9 months of the year. Which means constant LOUD hooting all night, every night, until you go and pay them attention.
Some animals, just can't be pets, it's that easy. An owl is one of them. Meant to be free in nature.
That is unfortunate ... poor owls. :( Although, I understand the fascination. Still, I'd rather see an owl by chance in nature than locked up in someone's home... (and I have seen an owl just recently! .. early early morning time, it was so cool!)
There should be some serious penalty for anyone who purchases or otherwise acquires any animal and then neglects them, fad or not, the poor animals are the ones who suffer. Parents need to stop giving in to the whims and whines of their children every time they want or demand something, particularly animals. They are a big responsibility no matter what the size or shape.
In the US you have to have a special permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service to own raptors.
It's time the UK caught up to the times!
This is crazy! Reminds me of the rush on dalmations after 101 Dalmations came out.
For one, I wouldn't let anyone under 21 buy a bird of this type (or a parrot, for that matter)....you can to be able to show that you can care for the pet.
