Owls are majestic, mysterious, and often seen as symbols of wisdom in various cultures. Their silent flight, piercing eyes, and unique personalities have made them a fascinating subject in movies, books, and folklore. It’s no surprise that some animal lovers wonder, can you have an owl as a pet?
While the idea of keeping an owl might sound intriguing or even magical. Thanks to popular characters like Hedwig from Harry Potter. The reality is far more complex. Owning an owl comes with a unique set of challenges, responsibilities, and legal considerations that many people are unaware of.
In this article, we’ll explore whether you can legally and ethically keep an owl as a pet, what it truly takes to care for one, and why they may not be the ideal choice for most households.
Is It Legal to Own an Owl as a Pet?
Before asking can you have an owl as a pet, it’s important to understand the legal restrictions that surround owning these wild birds. In many parts of the world, keeping an owl as a pet is either highly regulated or completely illegal due to wildlife protection laws.
United States
In the U.S., native owl species like barn owls, great horned owls, and snowy owls are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This means it is illegal for private individuals to own them as pets without special permits. Only licensed wildlife rehabilitators, educators, and falconers are legally allowed to keep them, under strict guidelines.
United Kingdom
In the UK, it is legal to own certain species of owls, such as barn owls, but they must be registered under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Owners are required to ensure proper care, provide suitable living conditions, and follow guidelines set by animal welfare laws.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
In the UAE and other Gulf countries, exotic pet ownership, including owls, is becoming increasingly restricted. Many species are now banned for private ownership under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). Violating these rules can result in heavy fines and legal action.
Other Countries
Laws vary significantly from country to country. In some places, non-native owl species may be legally owned under a license, while in others, all species are completely off-limits for private ownership.
Why People Want Owls as Pets
Owls have long captivated human imagination with their mysterious presence, piercing eyes, and graceful flight. One common reason people ask can you have an owl as a pet is the deep fascination they feel toward these majestic birds.
Influence of Pop Culture
Movies and TV shows have played a major role in romanticizing the idea of owning an owl. The Harry Potter franchise, for example, featured a loyal snowy owl named Hedwig who delivered mail and showed deep emotional connection with its owner. This portrayal has inspired many fans to consider owls as pets, not realizing the differences between fantasy and real-life animal care.
Exotic and Unique Appeal
Unlike traditional pets like dogs or cats, owls are considered exotic. Their silent flight, nocturnal behavior, and commanding presence make them stand out. Some individuals are drawn to the idea of owning something rare and different, often without understanding the responsibilities involved.
Symbolism and Personal Connection
In many cultures, owls symbolize wisdom, protection, and mystery. People who feel spiritually connected to these meanings may develop a desire to live with one. The emotional and symbolic appeal can often outweigh practical considerations for potential pet owners.
Desire for Social Media Attention
In today’s digital age, exotic pets can attract attention on social platforms. Some people are tempted to get owls for aesthetic photos or viral videos, overlooking the ethical and legal consequences of such actions.
Challenges of Keeping an Owl as a Pet
While the idea of owning an owl might seem fascinating, the reality is filled with difficulties that most people are unprepared for. Asking can you have an owl as a pet should always be followed by a deeper look into the challenges involved in their daily care, environment, and behavior.
1. Specialized Diet
Owls are carnivorous birds of prey and require a specific diet that typically includes whole rodents, chicks, or other small animals. You can’t simply feed them pet food or table scraps. This type of diet is not only expensive but also inconvenient for most people to manage.
2. Housing and Space Requirements
Owls need large, open enclosures to spread their wings, fly short distances, and stay mentally and physically healthy. A cage or indoor environment is usually insufficient, and improper housing can lead to stress or health issues.
3. Noise and Disruption
Owls are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. They hoot, screech, and call—sometimes loudly and unexpectedly. This can disturb sleep and isn’t ideal for families living in close quarters or residential areas.
4. Highly Territorial and Aggressive Behavior
Owls are wild animals, not domesticated pets. They can become aggressive, especially during mating season or when they feel threatened. Unlike dogs or cats, they don’t typically enjoy cuddling or physical affection and may bite or scratch if handled improperly.
5. Veterinary Care Is Limited
Not all vets are trained or licensed to treat birds of prey. Finding an avian specialist can be difficult and costly. Routine checkups, emergency treatment, or proper vaccinations are not as accessible as they are for traditional pets.
6. Long Lifespan
Some owl species can live 20–30 years in captivity. This long-term commitment requires extensive planning and dedication that many pet owners underestimate.
Cost of Owning a Pet Owl
In places where it’s legal to own an owl, purchasing one can cost anywhere between $1,000 and $5,000 depending on the species and breeder. But that’s only the beginning. Owls require very specific housing, a large outdoor aviary that mimics their natural habitat, which can easily cost thousands of dollars to build and maintain.
Feeding is another major expense. Unlike cats or dogs, owls eat a diet of whole prey such as mice, chicks, and rats, every single day. This can add up to a few hundred dollars per month, especially if you’re sourcing from specialized suppliers. And then there’s healthcare. Most local vets aren’t trained to treat birds of prey, so you’ll need access to an avian or raptor specialist, which usually comes with a higher price tag for even basic checkups or emergency care.
On top of that, if you live in a country where it’s legal to own an owl, you’ll likely need permits or licenses, which may have one-time or annual fees. Add in the cost of cleaning tools, safety gear like gloves, enrichment toys, and regular maintenance of the enclosure, and it’s easy to see how quickly things add up. So, if you’re asking yourself, can you have an owl as a pet, you also need to ask, can you afford to have one? Because the true cost goes far beyond the initial purchase, it’s a long-term financial commitment.
Alternatives to Owning an Owl
If you find yourself deeply fascinated by owls but realize that owning one may not be practical, legal, or ethical, you’re not alone. Many people who ask can you have an owl as a pet are simply drawn to their beauty and mystery, not necessarily ready for the intense responsibility that comes with it. Thankfully, there are healthier, safer alternatives that let you appreciate owls without having to bring one into your home.
One great option is supporting wildlife sanctuaries or rehabilitation centers that care for injured or rescued owls. Many of these organizations offer opportunities to “adopt” an owl symbolically. Your donation helps cover food, medical care, and housing for the bird, and in return, you receive updates, photos, or even a visit if you’re local. This is a rewarding way to help owls without disrupting their natural lifestyle.
Another alternative is birdwatching. Visiting nature reserves or going on guided owl-spotting tours allows you to experience owls in the wild, where they truly belong. You can also learn to identify different species by their calls, behavior, and flight patterns, turning your curiosity into a lifelong hobby.
If you’re interested in learning more about owls in an interactive way, consider volunteering with licensed falconers, bird rescue teams, or wildlife educators. These experts work closely with owls and often need help with feeding, cleaning, or educational programs. This can give you hands-on experience under professional supervision without the lifelong commitment of owning a wild animal.
Lastly, if it’s the idea of owning a unique bird that appeals to you, there are many domesticated bird species like cockatiels, budgies, or parrots that are far better suited for life as a pet. They can be affectionate, trainable, and enriching companions, all without the legal or ethical concerns that come with owls.
So while can you have an owl as a pet might spark your curiosity, looking into these thoughtful alternatives can offer an equally meaningful, and much more responsible way to enjoy these incredible creatures.
Conclusion
In the end, while the question can you have an owl as a pet may seem simple, the answer is anything but. Owls are magnificent, intelligent creatures that deserve to live in environments suited to their natural instincts. The reality of owning one involves legal restrictions, high costs, specialized care, and ethical concerns that most people aren’t prepared for. Unlike domesticated animals, owls don’t adapt well to human homes, nor do they offer the kind of companionship many pet owners expect.
Rather than trying to keep an owl as a pet, it’s far more rewarding and responsible to support them in ways that respect their wild nature. Whether that’s through sanctuary support, birdwatching, or educational programs, you can still experience the wonder of owls without compromising their well-being. Fascination doesn’t have to lead to ownership, sometimes, the best way to love a wild animal is to leave it wild.