THE number of barn owls has doubled in Cambridgeshire and a wildlife organisation has given Fenland people the chance to protect the bird’s future.

They have been given the opportunity to adopt the popular heart shaped face bird, that can be seen swooping over the Great Fen between Huntingdon and Peterborough.

Barn conversions and the removal of hollow trees have seen the number of barn owls in the country dwindle over the last 20 years, but the Wildlife Trust have created several ideal habitats and installed special nest boxes on its nature reserves.

Martin Baker, Conservation Manager for the Wildlife Trust in Cambridgeshire said: “There is nothing quite like the glimpse of a ghostly white barn owl silently gliding along a hedgerow. Dusk is the best time to spot this secretive creature and although shy of humans, the barn owl is actually reliant on us for feeding and nesting places.

“The Wildlife Trust has a great opportunity for members of the public to help us to continue our vital conservation work. By adopting a barn owl today you can ensure the protection of this beautiful bird for the future. It could also make the perfect wild Christmas present for friends and family.”

If you want to adopt an owl, call 01954 713543, or visit www.wildlifebcnp.org.