Excitement and curiosity filled the air as learners at three Cosmo City schools - Tirisano Mmogo Primary School, Cosmo City Junior Primary 1, and Cosmo City Junior Primary School - discovered the vital role owls play in their environment. Through an outreach initiative by owlproject.org, these schools received a Certificate of Participation, recognising their commitment to owl conservation and education.
For over 10 years, owlproject.org has been working in Cosmo City, installing owl boxes and educating communities about the ecological importance of owls. This initiative is part of a broader 20-year conservation effort led by owlproject.org, an organization internationally recognised for its work in ethical, nature-based pest control. With accolades such as the World Owl Hall of Fame and partnerships with BirdLife South Africa, owlproject.org has established itself as a global leader in owl conservation.
Owls as Natural Pest Control
Each of these schools has owl boxes installed to provide safe nesting spaces for Barn Owls (Tyto alba) as part of a natural rodent management strategy. Since their installation, teachers and staff have noticed a significant drop in rodent populations, proving that owls offer an effective, eco-friendly alternative to harmful pesticides.
During this visit, our team serviced and maintained the owl boxes, ensuring they are in top condition for the upcoming Barn Owl breeding season. Thanks to Woodoc, a proud sponsor of owlproject.org, the boxes were treated with Woodoc varnish, extending their durability and effectiveness.
The hands-on learning experience was a highlight for the learners, who examined owl pellets to see firsthand how owls help control rodent populations. Their excitement turned into a spirited chant:
"Izikhova amagundane!" (Zulu for "Owls eat rats!")
This simple yet powerful message reflects the ecological balance owls bring to urban environments.
Real Impact!
For teachers and staff, the presence of Barn Owls has been a game-changer. Thembi, a staff member at Tirisano Mmogo Primary School, shared her experience:
"These owls are actually helping because we used to have a problem with rats destroying the foodstuff in the storeroom. Now, ever since these owls are here, they're actually helping because we now and then see dead rats that the owl has eaten. So they are indeed doing a good job for us. We're happy with them. We want more and more of them. It’s a beautiful bird. Thank you to the owl team."
A Long-Term Commitment to Conservation
Sara Orchardson from owlproject.org, who led the initiative, reflected on the success of the visit:
"It was a fantastic day! We found occupied owl boxes, which means the program is working! We serviced the boxes, ensuring they are ready for the Barn Owl breeding season, and engaged with enthusiastic learners who now see owls as allies. The kids were fantastic, and their excitement was contagious!"
These owl boxes will continue to be monitored and serviced annually, ensuring their long-term success. With ongoing education and conservation efforts, these young learners are shaping a future where owls and humans thrive together.
Join Us in Expanding Ethical, Nature-Based Pest Control
We are dedicated to bringing owl conservation to more schools and communities across South Africa. By supporting this initiative, you help expand ethical, nature-based pest control solutions that protect wildlife and benefit communities.
🌍 Join us in making a difference!
📢 Donate today at www.owlproject.org