The Owls Trust Travel Guide

The Owls Trust, established at Bodafon Farm Park in 2001, operates as a small but mighty charity dedicated to owl conservation and rehabilitation. The facility houses one of the most comprehensive collections of owls available to the public anywhere in the United Kingdom, featuring species from across the globe. Beyond owls, the collection includes hawks, kookaburras, and other birds of prey, each housed in well-designed, spacious aviaries that prioritize animal welfare and natural behaviour.

The core mission of The Owls Trust centres on three interconnected pillars. First, the organisation rescues injured and distressed birds of prey, providing medical care and rehabilitation to return them to suitable wild habitats whenever possible. Many owls in the collection are former "pets" that arrived in poor condition; the trust provides them with permanent homes where they can thrive in species-appropriate surroundings. Second, the trust operates an extensive education programme, teaching young people and community groups about owl ecology, their role in ecosystems, and the importance of habitat conservation. Third, the organisation works with international partners to establish and maintain breeding populations of the world's rarest owl species, preparing for future habitat restoration and species reintroduction initiatives.

Among the collection is Orion, a Pel's Fishing Owl—the only hand-reared individual of this critically endangered species currently on public display anywhere in the world. Native to sub-Saharan Africa, Pel's Fishing Owls are rarely seen in the wild and their population remains unknown. The trust also collaborates with conservation partners in Kenya through SOFAfrica, raising awareness among local children about owl species as natural pest controllers, reducing reliance on harmful pesticides. This international work demonstrates how local conservation efforts ripple outward to protect biodiversity on a global scale.

Visitors encounter knowledgeable staff and volunteers who bring owls out of their enclosures for close interaction and education. The setting offers spectacular views over Llandudno and the surrounding countryside, creating a memorable backdrop for wildlife observation. Information boards throughout the facility provide detailed insights into each species' behaviour, habitat requirements, and conservation status. The trust welcomes families, couples, and solo visitors, with a children's play area and picnic benches available on the grounds.

The trust relies entirely on visitor donations and adoption programmes to fund its operations. Visitors can adopt individual owls, receiving an adoption certificate, photograph, thank-you letter, and free entry to visit their adopted bird. Every penny donated directly supports bird care, aviaries, education programmes, and international conservation work. The organisation sends adoption packs worldwide, enabling global participation in owl protection efforts.