Danelle and Brendan Murray: Creating a safe haven for owls
Rural communities associate owls with witchcraft or superstitious beliefs, which often lead to persecution.
Danelle and Brendan Murray, a North West couple, are dedicated to conserving owls and other endangered animals. In 2014, they purchased a 54-hectare farm in Bokfontein, Hartbeespoort to establish Owl Rescue Centre, initially focused on saving owls but expanding to rescue other wildlife as well. The Murray couple rescues owls from urban areas due to superstition or because they have become unwanted, such as when they get trapped in buildings or chimneys.
They rehabilitate owls by providing feeding platforms for 3,000 chicks every night and, once released, many owls return to the sanctuary to breed. The Murray's farm also houses repurposed items like old washing machines, fridges, and an aircraft fuselage, which serve as owl houses. The couple's work has sparked an education initiative to dispel superstitious beliefs about owls, emphasizing the importance of coexistence with wildlife.
In partnership with Toyota South Africa Motors, they recently launched Project Otter, which includes building an acclimation dam, a rearing area for young otters, and distributing books about otters to schools. Toyota's support extends beyond financial sponsorship, as their 4x4 Hilux vehicle helps the centre with wildlife rescues and field conservation.
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