Salisbury Zoo Welcomes New Spectacled Owl

SALISBURY, Md. – The Salisbury Zoo has announced the arrival of a new one-year-old Spectacled Owl to their grounds.

The young male owl is named Bosque, Spanish for “forest.” He joins the Zoo’s resident female Spectacled Owl, 28-year-old Luna. Zookeepers say the pair has already exhibited positive affiliative behaviors, making for a smooth and successful introduction focused on social enrichment.

The Salisbury Zoo has cared for Spectacled Owls since 1988, and participates in the cooperative management of the species within accredited zoological facilities. Bosque’s arrival was made possible after the recent transfer of a second female owl, formerly housed at the Salisbury Zoo, to a Florida institution. Zoo offcials say the move created an additional compatible pair, supporting the wellbeing of all owls involved.

Spectacled Owls are not endangered due to stable wild populations, but they face growing challenges from habitat loss. Bosque’s introduction to the Salisbury Zoo reaffirms the Zoo’s commitment to conservation education.

“Bosque and Luna help us share the story of forest ecosystems and why protecting old-growth habitat matters,” said Luke Krider, head of Animal Collections at the Salisbury Zoo. “By caring for this species, we’re able to build empathy for wildlife and inspire visitors to take meaningful steps that support conservation.”

Visitors can now see Bosque and Luna on habitat. To learn more, click here.