Spotted Eagle Owl: Certified First Responder Course

Description

This certified course provides a comprehensive, field-ready guide to understanding and responding to Spotted Eagle Owls (Bubo africanus) in South Africa. Designed specifically for wildlife first responders, this course goes beyond basic identification and explores real-world scenarios you are likely to encounter in urban, suburban, and rural environments.

You will learn how to accurately identify owls at different life stages, understand their behaviour, and assess when intervention is necessary and when it is not. The course places strong emphasis on ethical decision-making, chick reunification, and avoiding unnecessary removals.

We also explore common threats including vehicle collisions, fence entanglement, disease, and secondary rodenticide poisoning, along with practical, step-by-step response protocols.

In addition, this course equips you with the communication skills needed to work effectively with the public, particularly in areas where fear and cultural beliefs influence how owls are treated.

By the end of this course, you will be confident in handling Spotted Eagle Owl cases responsibly, improving outcomes for both the animal and the community

Your Instructor

Shireen Freeman

Founder – Grace Valley Wildlife Rescue and the Wild Ways Learning Centre

Shireen Freeman is a wildlife rescuer, educator, and the founder of Grace Valley Wildlife Rescue, a wildlife first responder organisation serving the Overberg region of South Africa.

She is certified in:

Wildlife Rescue – Wildlife Rescue SA

Humane Education – Institute for Humane Education

Through her rescue work and public training, Shireen has helped hundreds of wild animals and educated communities on how to assist wildlife safely and responsibly.

What Happens After You Book

Once you register for the course:

✔ You will receive confirmation of your booking

✔ You will receive access to the course under My Courses on the website

✔ You can complete the course from anywhere and receive your certificate upon completion

✔ You will gain the knowledge needed to respond humanely to rodent-human conflict