Spectacled owls in zoo collections require specialist care addressing their nocturnal activity patterns, prey-catching instincts, and social needs to achieve acceptable welfare standards.
Nocturnal raptors like spectacled owls present specific welfare challenges in zoo settings primarily driven by the mismatch between their natural activity cycles and visitor hours. Daytime disturbance disrupts essential rest and causes chronic stress. Best-practice facilities manage this through off-exhibit resting areas, controlled visitor access during active periods at dawn and dusk, and exhibit design that provides hiding areas where owls can rest undisturbed. Flight opportunity in appropriately sized aviaries is essential for physical health and behavioural expression. Live prey enrichment — or realistic prey items — should be integrated into feeding regimes to engage hunting instincts. Stable pair housing with the same partner over years supports natural social bonding.