Spectacled owls are large Neotropical raptors that present specific welfare challenges in zoo settings related to flight space, enrichment, and their naturally solitary nature.
Large raptor welfare in zoo settings requires flight aviary space adequate for genuine wing extension and short flights, appropriate perching at various heights, and prey-simulation enrichment. Spectacled owls as nocturnal predators experience the same chronobiological challenges as other nocturnal species in zoo settings — management should accommodate their natural activity timing rather than forcing daytime display. Imprinted spectacled owls — raised with excessive human contact — may be unable to be released and require managed ambassador animal roles, which carry their own welfare considerations. Natural perch structures at appropriate heights, varied substrate, and live or frozen-thawed prey presentation support welfare. Their solitary nature means individual housing is appropriate without the social enrichment requirements of group-living species.