FALCONS, owls and other birds of prey flew into a Shirley care home.
Residents at The Priory Bupa Care Home got to feed the birds as they perched on their arms thanks during a visit from Walks with Hawks.
A range of feathered visitors, including two owls; Hibou and Oreo, and a European kestrel called Havoc, visited the residents in the comfort of their armchairs.
Resident, Irene Carter, said: “It was so beautiful to feel them – feel their feathers, and have them fly from my hands.”
Another resident, Elsie Blissett, said: “It was a wonderful activity, I never thought I would see an owl in my care home.”
The birds were welcomed to the Shelly Crescent home as part of a tactile experience of holding a bird on either a gloved arm or by the use of a mangler which is said to evoke a sense of wonder and awe, allowing residents to reconnect with the world around them, reducing stress and improving well-being.
Rosemarie O’Connor, activity co-ordinator, said: “We chatted with residents and asked if they would enjoy a falconry therapy visit, and it was something that they were very interested in.
“Some residents have never experienced anything like that before, so it was so heartwarming to see them in awe of the animals.
“These types of activities help improve the concentration and memory of our residents and it certainly awakens their senses.”
