First record of predation by barn owls (Tyto furcata – Temmink, 1827) released after rehabilitation

Resumo

In Brazil, confiscated wildlife is often directed to various destinations. When release is deemed appropriate, animals are sent to Rehabilitation Centers to regain the skills necessary for survival in the wild. Environmental enrichment plays a vital role in this process and in maintaining the animals’ well-being. This study aimed to investigate barn owls’ (Tyto furcata) acceptance of different types of environmental enrichment and to monitor them post-release. Four individuals were housed in a rehabilitation enclosure of the ASAS Project (IEF-MG), located in the rural area of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, from September 2022 to January 2023. Five environmental enrichment tools were provided, and the animals’ interactions with these tools and with each other were monitored using four cameras. Initially, the owls were fed beef and dead rats; later, they were offered live chicks and rodents, and in the final week, only chicken necks. Interactions with all tools were observed. However, one individual did not use the “Nest Box” due to antagonistic interactions with others, leading to its death, with evidence of partial cannibalism. The enclosure was opened in January 2023 for soft release. Post-release, one owl continued to use the “Water reservoir,” and two utilized the “Nest Box” for up to seven weeks. Eleven regurgitated pellets collected during this period contained remains of rodents, insects, and a bird. The rehabilitation process was successful, as the released owls demonstrated the ability to utilize natural food resources in the environment.