Snowy Owl Moose Paired with New Mate at Birdworld

Moose, a seven-year-old widowed snowy owl residing at Birdworld in Farnham, Surrey, has been introduced to a new companion. Keepers at the facility have matched her with Elk, a 20-year-old single male from Yorkshire. Polly Bramham, the living collections manager at the zoo, observed the initial interaction, stating: “Moose ran up to Elk, nudged his face with hers, and then casually returned to her favourite tree stump to observe from a distance.” This new pairing occurs several months after the passing of Moose’s long-term mate, Kettle, who succumbed to an ongoing illness. Ms Bramham reflected on their previous bond, saying: “Kettle and Moose were together for six years and had a wonderful relationship; they kept the keepers both entertained and on their toes.” The zoo characterized Kettle as attentive, protective, and “a firm favourite among keepers and visitors alike”. In remembrance of Kettle, Birdworld has introduced an educational character named Professor Kettle, visible throughout the park. The zoo indicated that Moose is now progressing positively with her new partner, with hopes that their relationship will result in successful breeding during 2025. James Robson, Birdworld’s general manager, expressed that everyone was “delighted to see Moose beginning a new chapter”. Birdworld, established in 1968, stands as one of the nation’s largest bird parks.