First creature to be taken to animal sanctuary dies after 22 years (UK)

[Donna]

THE first creature ever to be brought to Lower Moss Wood animal sanctuary has died after 22 years.

Volunteers and workers at Ollerton wildlife hospital have bid a fond farewell to Clicky, the barn owl, who died in December.

Warden Ray Jackson founded the animal sanctuary in 1989 and his first initiative was a breed and release scheme for owls.

Clicky arrived days later but she was too tame to release and became a permanent resident.

Since then, she has been a favourite with school children visiting the woodland refuge and even appeared on BBC’s Animal Hospital.

Ray said: “Clicky was to become a marvellous educational resource and was the start of a very long learning curve for me.

“In the beginning, I used to be able to call her and she would fly to my hand – she was very gentle for a killing machine.

“I never wore a glove, I was willing to put up with a few scratches.

“Clicky lived a long life. I thought she was going to live forever but it was not to be.

“She is the last of my long-term residents and although I am sad to lose her it gives me a chance to reflect.

“I’m sure there will be many more to come.�


Knutsford Guardian

[MAK]

   Cute owl and cute name. RIP Clicky!