A couple of weeks ago, our very own Darwin the Chaco Owl accompanied falconer Rob to visit Newmarket Library, in support of the re-launch of Suffolk Libraries pre-school Wordplay activities.
These sessions offer opportunities for young children, their parents and their carers to get involved with regular Baby Bounce, Tot Rock or Storytime activities, and when we found out that the new mascot is an owl called Oona…we just couldn’t turn down the opportunity to support them on this exciting journey!
An extremely well-behaved Darwin provided a brilliant meet and greet learning opportunity for all our young friends at Newmarket Library, and was a credit to his handler Rob who was only too happy to demonstrate the importance of owls to our up-and-coming youngest fans.
Whilst the collaboration between Suffolk Owl Sanctuary and Suffolk Libraries is most definitely new and still developing, we are excited to announce that Suffolk Libraries are now the proud sponsors of Bea and Bumble the Ural Owls - a donation which will go towards helping support special projects aimed at the preservation and conservation of owls and other birds of prey in the wild.
You may also be aware that we have recently been campaigning for old newspapers to help provide a high level of care in our Raptor Hospital. Not only were Newmarket Library able to donate some old newspapers at the launch event, both Ipswich and Stowmarket Libraries have kindly agreed to supply us with used newspapers going forwards - something for which both SOS staff and our resident birds will be extremely grateful for.
In addition to this, Suffolk Libraries have kindly donated a selection of children's’ books for use in our new Nature Centre. We aim to provide an opportunity for youngsters and their carers to take some time out to read, learn and communicate during their visit to SOS.
In return for such generosity and opportunity, Suffolk Owl Sanctuary are proud to offer free entry to all 5 year olds (and younger) who are lucky enough to hold a Suffolk Libraries children's card!
“Suffolk Owl Sanctuary are delighted to be involved with the new Wordplay project and look forward to welcoming young visitors to SOS where they will see some amazing and unusual owls (and other birds of prey) which we are sure will add extra depth and texture to their reading as they first explore the wonderful world of books.” Chris Astridge of Suffolk Owl Sanctuary
We are excited to watch this partnership grow over the coming months!