Keep aviaries secure, bird owners told after spate of thefts
Barn owls stolen from a falconry centre and a house in two separate thefts have prompted police to issue a warning to owners of birds of prey.
Staffordshire Police said all bird thefts were treated very seriously and work was continuing to drive down rural crime.
It comes after thieves targeted the Owl and Falconry Centre, at Shipley, near Wolverhampton, earlier this month taking eight valuable birds of prey and killing one.
The birds taken were estimated to be worth more than £8,000. Two barn owls and three bantam chickens were taken and a burrowing owl was killed in the raid.
And the most recent theft saw two barn owls taken from their home in Cannock. Barney and Elsa were taken from the home of Tracey and Stuart Clenton Smith in New Street, Bridgtown.
Police today said they were not currently linking the two thefts.
Pc Pete Clarke said owners are recommended to ensure sheds and outbuildings are as secure as possible. He added: "We are continuing to work with partners and rural communities to drive down rural crime."
Head keeper at the Owl and Falconry Centre Karl Law said bird thefts seemed to be on the rise.
Call police on the non-emergency 101.
