Number of Norfolk barn owls takes off

The number of barn owls in South Norfolk has taken off according to the latest count.

Four years ago a project was set up between the local counciland 120 local volunteers to install 30 barn owl boxes throughout the district.

During the first year, only 6 of the boxes were in use. But on a recent site check the Ranger discovered birds nesting in 25 of the boxes, with 12 occupied by barn owls.

The number of barn owls has been in decline for the past 100 years - largely due to a loss of habitat.

South Norfolk Council Cabinet member for Environment and Regulation, Councillor Keith Kiddie said: