Introduction to Owls

This workshop provides pupils with a lovely introduction the incredible world of owls. During a short tour of the grounds stopping at some of our resident owl aviaries, pupils can discover British and non-native species.

We will compare the differences between owl species by looking at a variety of aspects about each species, including:

• when each species is most active;
• how much owls vary in size;
• discover the adaptations that aid their survival;
• how varied owl feathers can be in colour, size, texture and structure.

During the workshop, pupils will have an opportunity to meet one of our resident owls and witness it’s graceful, silent flying skills in one of our flying arenas. Pupils will also learn about how the Trust helps wild owls.

We often link this session to the popular story books ‘Owl Babies’, by Martin Waddell or the ‘Owl who was Afraid of the Dark’ by Jim Tomlinson. Please do let us know in advance if you are reading either of these books in school and would like to request to meet the species featuring in the book.

This workshop can be adapted to compare diurnal birds of prey to owls on request, if ‘classification’ is the topic link of interest.

Key subject:

English and Science

Adaptable for:

EYFS – Year 2

Objectives:

Pupils will be able to:

• Explain that owls are different to other predatory birds and point out the adaptations that help to classify them as a bird of prey.
• Identify (through images) the five British owl species, understanding that these species live in different habitats.
• Describe how not all owls are nocturnal and be able to use words to describe daytime active owls, and birds which would be seen hunting at dusk and dawn.
• Discuss the advantage of camouflage and meet species with perfect camouflage for the habitat they would live in if they were in the wild.

Curriculum links:

Understanding the world (Early Years)

• Make observations of animals and plants and explain why things occur, and talk about changes.

Year 1 and 2

• Identifying and classifying.
• Use observations and ideas to answer questions.
• Describe and compare the structure of a variety of birds
• Identify that most living things live in habitats to which they are suited.
• Identify and name a variety of plants and animals in their habitats.

Running time:

50 minutes