SALISBURY, Md. – The Salisbury Zoo has introduced a new male Spectacled Owl named Bosque to join its resident female, Luna. Bosque is just over one year old, while Luna is 28. Zoo officials said the pair has adjusted well, showing positive interactions that contribute to their social enrichment. The birds are now on display for visitors, along with information about their role in forest ecosystems, according to the Salisbury Zoo’s official Facebook page.
Spectacled Owls are native to tropical rainforests stretching from southern Mexico through Central and parts of South America. They are the largest owls in much of their range and serve as nocturnal predators that help maintain balanced forest populations. The species is known for its distinctive white facial markings and deep, resonant calls, according to the Salisbury Zoo. The Salisbury Zoo has cared for Spectacled Owls for decades and participates in coordinated management programs with other accredited facilities. Bosque’s arrival followed the transfer of a second female owl from Salisbury to a Florida zoo, allowing staff to create compatible pairings that support the welfare of all birds. While breeding is unlikely due to Luna’s age, staff said the introduction benefits both owls by encouraging natural social behaviors, the Zoo reported. Although Spectacled Owls are not currently considered endangered, conservationists warn that habitat loss and forest fragmentation are ongoing challenges for the species, according to the Zoo. Luke Krider, head of Animal Collections at the Salisbury Zoo, said the new pairing offers a chance to educate visitors about forest ecosystems and the importance of wildlife conservation. For more information, visit salisburyzoo.org.
Photo: Salisbury Zoo Facebook page