Bicton College welcomes new feathered resident to its licensed zoo
Bicton College is thrilled to introduce the newest addition to its licensed zoo: Herbert, a nine-year-old Indian Eagle owl.
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of the South West, Bicton College’s zoo serves as a dynamic learning environment for aspiring animal experts, handlers and veterinary nurses.
With a diverse array of species, the zoo offers unparalleled opportunities for hands-on experience and education, and welcomes members of the public for the likes of ‘junior keeper’ days, birthday parties and more.
Herbert, a magnificent Indian Eagle owl, has quickly become a beloved member of the Bicton College community, part of The Cornwall College Group (TCCG).
His journey to the College is as compelling as his personality. Rescued from the RSPCA in June 2023, Herbert found a new home where he can thrive under the care and attention of the dedicated staff and animal management students at Bicton College. 
Despite his impressive size, weighing in at just 2 pounds, Herbert’s captivating presence has captured the hearts of students and staff alike.
Contrary to popular belief, Herbert can’t quite perform a full 360-degree head rotation; instead, he can rotate his head up to 270-degrees, a remarkable feat nonetheless.
His striking dark orange eyes, indicative of his crepuscular nature – which means he is active during dawn and dusk, further add to his mystique and allure.
“We’re delighted to welcome Herbert to our unique licenced zoo at Bicton College, he brings a wealth of educational opportunities for our students and serves as a living testament to our commitment to wildlife conservation and education,” expressed Jess Hill, animal zone manager and senior study programme manager.
The close partnership between Bicton College and the RSPCA is vital to support animal welfare and conservation in the South West.
For more information about Herbert and Bicton College’s licensed zoo, please contact animalzone@bicton.ac.uk
To find out more about courses available at Bicton College, visit the website.
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