I was exploring the Continental Street Market in Inverness, Scotland on Thursday, November 12, 2009, when I got an unexpected bonus.  Birds of Prey Rescue Centre had a fundraising stand on the street, tended to by Mr. Tommy Horne and his two amazing European Eagle Owls.  Tommy told me that the Birds of Prey Rescue Centre has been in existence for 30 years and that they have rescued and released back into the wild over 30 birds of prey.  Rescued birds that are unable to survive on their own if released are housed in shelters or zoos.

The two amazing European Eagle Owls Tommy  had with him were not rescued, however.  Tommy told me that they have been with him since they were still in their eggs.  He incubated the eggs under warm lights until they hatched.

The European Eagle Owl is the largest owl in the world.  Tommy's owls are still young, but when they reach maturity they will stand 3 feet tall and have a wingspan of about 6 feet.  These beautiful birds are native to Southern and Eastern Europe but over the last few years, several have been seen in the Highlands of Scotland.  Last Winter, one of these birds took up residence in the city of Inverness and caused quite a few shocks when it visited people's bird feeders looking for food!

Birds of Prey Rescue Centre does not have a website.  However, Tommy promised that if you send him an email at the address below, he will answer your questions.
horne522@btinternet.com