HOOTS Forever Home recently held an open day in Dalry and the charity is keen to spread the word about the wonderful job they do.

A spokesperson said: “Our displays are for the public and in the process of doing the displays we are helping the birds, with their stories and educating people and getting the community involved in what we are doing and how they can help in their own areas preserve and educate about these animals.

“Welfare of our birds is our utmost importance, and the reason we started Hoots Forever Home.

"A sanctuary is any place to which you can “escape” and feel safe and free from harm or threat, this we try to provide for the birds.

“Owls and other birds of prey are becoming more threatened in the their habitats by us humans and what we are doing to it.

"Our guys are all captive breeds and therefore can never be released into the wild, one it is against the law and secondly they would never survive, since they are fed by humans they do not know how to hunt and wild birds will go for the kill as well.” “Most of the birds have been abused, beaten, starved, to name but a few.

"We take them in, give them a forever home, full food, full vet care and anything else they may need, each has their own aviary and section of the grounds which is theirs.

"We take our time to let them settle, get to know their personality and slowly get them to trust again, some are so damaged they just live their lives out in peace and quiet.

One of the charity’s volunteers said: “The biggest impact is seeing the reaction with the public with giving the information about the birds, how people are not aware of these birds and their importance in the natural world.

“Personally the charity has enabled me to speak with greater clarity, and my stuttering is improving.

"I was a recluse and still suffer from this as I have learning difficulties, but when I am asked to do a display, I look forward to going, meeting people and being with the birds.

"The birds and other volunteers and the public have given me a new sense of life and a new outlook on it.

“I call it the 'animal Zen', but I can relate to the birds and it is extremely calming and this helps me.

"I have also noticed it helps the other volunteers and even the public, as some people are terrified of birds and by just speaking to them and sharing my insight, letting them see the animals are settled, then you see their fear dissipate and before you know it they are stroking and getting closer to the birds.

"This seems to have an all over effect from the animals, to the handler to the public.

"The knowledge and relaxation we offer has been noted numerous times and I feel privileged and honoured to be part of this great charity.” Thanks to Rosie Jake Photography for the photos that they kindly sent in of the birds.