Our Work
The Trust's work - prevention of drowning
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Steep-sided cattle troughs, whether they are full to the top or only part-filled are where most drownings occur but dead owls have also been discovered in garden water butts, horse water buckets, oil containers and even slurry pits.
How to prevent drowning
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Pictures of water troughs and floats
Whilst carrying out various conservation schemes we have protected all the troughs within 200 metres of each nest and this certainly seems to have prevented birds from drowning. Because floats sometimes need to be replaced, and can easily be removed by anyone who is unaware of the reason for them, they are only a long-term solution where there is ongoing effort. In order for that effort to be directed for maximum benefit, it is suggested that steep-sided water containers are made safe -
- Within 200 metres of active nest sites (starting with the closest one).
- Where birds have previously been found drowned.
In cattle farming areas, making all water containers safe is generally not a practical proposition. The ultimate solution is for water trough manufacturers to design bird-friendly tanks.
