Masked Owl - Nswfmpa.org

• Heavy breathing• Posture – feathers fluffed or ruffled• Threat posture• Flying at speed into objects e.g. perches , enclosure barrier9.7 Behavioural Enrichment• Move feed stumps around exhibit rather than always feeding out in the same areaof enclosure• Stake food to perches, masked owls feed on some arboreal species• to increase the amount of on time on display darken back half of enclosure sidesand roof using shade cloth or mesh or allow thick leafy vines to grow up alongside and roof of exhibit.• Frequently changing enclosure furniture can prevent boredom and undesirablebehaviour.• Have recordings of vocalisations of other owls, or vocalizations of prey animalssuch as rats or possums. Sounds of prey must be accompanied with feed as itcould cause a lot of stress to owl to hear food sounds but no presence of food.• Food can be cut into bigger sized pieces so owl can ripe and tear at food as itwould in the wild.9.8 Introductions and RemovalsThe introduction of any species to a new enclosure or group should be well monitored.To introduce a new bird a cage can be placed side by side or cage in cage for a few daysto a week to allow them time to adjust.Removal of should only be done by experienced staff. The best time of day would beearly morning so birds can be monitored throughout day by keepers.9.9 Intraspecific CompatibilityIf two or more male Masked Owls are housed together, they do not show signs ofaggression unless there are females present. (Staples C)9.10 Interspecific CompatibilityAt Featherdale Wildlife Park young Masked Owls are housed withBarn Owls Tyto alba.as owls reach breeding age the species should be separated as theywill be come aggressive toward each other.39