August 28, 2024 10:50 a.m. 

Wildlife Safari has announced the arrival of two young barn owls to The Barnyard section of the free walk-through Safari Village.

Public Relations Manager Taylor Holeman said these owlets, born at Hawk Creek Wildlife Center in New York, have traveled across the country to find their new home. Holeman said now, at about four months old, they are settling in and are ready to meet guests.

The Safari release said the journey of these owlets to Wildlife Safari has been made possible through the sponsorship of Rever Grand, an organization dedicated to supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities statewide. Since 2016, Rever Grand has been a champion for creating inclusive communities, and Holeman said Wildlife Safari is honored to partner with them in this endeavor.

Village Supervisor Rachael Mohlman said, “The barn owls are settling in nicely and enjoying the expanded space”. Mohlman said, “They are shy during the day but they explore every perch and hiding spot at night. We are working with them to build a bond with the keepers so that we can soon bring them out to meet guests during events and keeper chats in the future”.

The habitat, designed to provide a natural and enriching environment for the owlets, is now open for visitors to enjoy. As a special collaboration with Rever Grand, the public is invited to participate in naming the new feathered friends. Through September 16th, guests can submit their name suggestions on Rever Grand’s website.

For more information and to submit name suggestions, go to: Explore the Brand New Barnyard Exhibit – Rever Grand (rgoregon.com)