The Harry Potter bandwagon has increased the interest in owls
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Wildlife experts are reporting a huge increase in the number of owls being bought as presents but then dumped.
Their popularity is thought to be linked to J K Rowling's Harry Potter books, as they feature the young wizard keeping an owl as a pet.
But the birds, which can live for up to 30 years, are being put at risk when owners tire of them and release them.
David Luther, a senior wildlife ranger in Leicestershire, said owls need a lot of work and to be cared for properly.
He said: "If birds of prey, or owls, are kept correctly and you can give them the time, then there is nothing wrong with that.
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