The young owls spent their first few weeks in Bavaria in an aviary, getting accustomed to their new environment. Then the hatches were opened and the birds were free to fly off into the forest of Naturpark Steinwald. These individuals have an important role to play in the preservation of their species, which is very rare in Germany.
The goal is to reintroduce at least 150 of these owls over the coming years. In preparation, the Verein für Landschaftspflege, Artenschutz & Biodiversität (VLAB) has already set up about 220 nesting boxes around Naturpark Steinwald.
Success stories like this one show how a shared commitment to wildlife and natural habitats can bring about positive change.