It’s a real feather in your cap if you catch the annual Owls on Tour in Bromley

Bromley residents will have more than just reading material to feast their eyes on next month at their local libraries as an annual visit from handsomely photogenic owls takes place.

The owls – collectively known as a ‘parliament’ – will ‘swoop’ in to Better libraries all over the borough throughout the holidays. They belong to the Jambs Owls wildlife sanctuary in Bexleyheath.

Children and adults alike will be able to hold the birds under the watchful eye of an experienced handler and learn about our feathered friends’ night time adventures, what they eat and how they survive.

There are usually a different breeds paying a visit – among them barn owls, eagle owls, and snowy owls.

Plenty of plastic sheeting ensures that books and computers will be protected from any accidents.

Even better, it’s free to meet the owls but places are limited so contact your local library well in advance to reserve a ‘perch’.

Children’s librarian Jenny Hawke, whose name could hardly be more appropriate, said: “The owls’ previous visits have been a great success and we’re thrilled to have them back again this year. Giving children the chance to see wild creatures up-close and learn about their habits, is so valuable. It’s also a lot of fun.”

Khalid Siddiqui, the manager at Orpington Library, said: “Last year, the children had a fantastic time. Most of them had never seen a bird of prey up close. Meeting the snowy owl was like bringing Harry Potter’s companion Hedwig to life.

“It’s so important for children to learn about the natural world, especially as we’re facing constant bad news about climate change.”

The Owls’ touring schedule throughout August is as follows: Beckenham Library (temp accommodation) – Tuesday 20th, 2.30-3.30pm; Biggin Hill Library – Thursday 1st, 10.30-11.30am; Bromley Central Library – Monday 12th, 10.30-11.30am; Chislehurst Library – Thursday 8th, 10.30-11.30am; Hayes Library – Tuesday 13th, 10.30-11.30am; Mottingham Library – Monday 12th, 2.30-3.30pm; Orpington Library – Monday 19th, 2.30-3.30pm; Penge Library – Thursday 22nd, 2.30-3.30pm; Petts Wood Library – Thursday 8th, 2.30-3.30pm; St Paul’s Cray Library – Thursday 15th, 10.30-11.30am; Shortlands Library – Tuesday 13th, 2.30-3.30pm; West Wickham Library (temp accommodation) – Monday 19th, 10.30-11.30am.

Bromley libraries are run by charitable social enterprise GLL under the ‘Better’ brand.

Pictured top: Jenny Hawke with one of her feathered friends (Picture GLL)