The sanctuary maintains a dedicated raptor hospital that treats and rehabilitates over 100 wild birds of prey annually.
The resident red squirrel colony is part of a national effort to protect this species in a controlled environment.
Some resident owls are non-releasable due to permanent injuries, serving as permanent ambassadors for their species.
The facility features a Meerkat enclosure that operates as a popular secondary attraction alongside the raptors.
The sanctuary utilizes a specific ‘hawk walk’ area where birds are exercised in a controlled, naturalistic setting.
The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary is a specialized wildlife center located within the Stonham Barns retail and leisure complex. It functions as a rehabilitation facility and sanctuary for injured owls and birds of prey. The site hosts an extensive collection of species, including native British owls and exotic raptors from around the globe. Visitors can observe the birds in purpose-built aviaries and attend flight demonstrations held in an open-air arena. The sanctuary operates an on-site hospital that treats wild birds brought in by the public for rescue and release. Educational displays explain the ecology and natural history of raptors. A woodland walk allows for viewing of other local wildlife, including a colony of red squirrels. The facility supports conservation through captive breeding programs for specific endangered species. It is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers via flat, gravelled paths.
The viewing area during the flight demonstration provides the best opportunity to capture raptors in mid-air.
Check the daily flight demonstration schedule immediately upon arrival to avoid missing the primary bird interaction.
Bring binoculars if you wish to observe birds in the larger, deeper aviaries, as some shy species may retreat to the back.
Visit the red squirrel enclosure during quieter mid-week periods for a higher chance of seeing them active near the perimeter.
Avoid tapping on the aviary mesh or flash photography near the birds, as both behaviors cause significant distress to the raptors.
Open daily throughout the year, though flight demonstrations are weather-dependent and may be canceled during high winds or heavy rain.
Maintain quiet around the aviary enclosures to reduce stress for the birds; do not attempt to touch the animals.
