Owls kept for falconry and as companion birds face specific welfare challenges. The growing trend of owl cafes raises additional concerns about this welfare-sensitive species.
Owls are particularly poorly suited to captive companion roles. As solitary, nocturnally active predators, they find sustained human contact aversive rather than neutral. Tethering prevents natural movement and can cause talon and ankle injuries from repeated bating attempts. Owl cafes that keep owls awake during their natural rest period for tourist interaction cause chronic sleep deprivation. The visual appeal of owls drives demand that exceeds the welfare considerations of the animals involved.