The Ahafo Regional Forestry Manager, Nana Kwabena Poku Bosompim is appealing to people to stop killing owls.
He said because of the nature of owls, especially their big eyes and the way they can twist their neck, some sections of people have the misconception that they are witches and wizards. Others go to the extent of cutting down trees they’ve found the owl on it. Some religious people pray against them and some kill them with the perception that they possess evil spirits.
“There are about 17 species of owls. They go out at night because of the kind of food they eat. Owls mostly feed on rodents and their looks make people think they are evil animals but, that’s a misconception”, he said.
He added because of this misconception he has taken it upon himself to educate people so that they will eradicate that old theory. He said they are just like any other birds in the ecosystem.
Brief fact about owls
As predators, owls play an important role in the environment by controlling small animal populations. Because mammals are a primary prey item, this can be especially beneficial to humans, reducing the amount of food lost each year to rodents.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com/ Sulley Dramani
