Ebbw Vale Owl Sanctuary, a beloved Welsh refuge for sick and injured birds of prey run by 87-year-old Malcolm Jones, has announced it will close to members of the public from 31 August 2026. The sanctuary, which has operated seven days a week since it opened in 1998, will continue caring for its birds but will only open for six days a year without a licence.
Reasons for closure
The owners said they were "heartbroken" to make the decision, which they attributed to difficulties meeting expectations to secure a licence to operate, as well as "haters" who have made reports to trading standards after visiting the sanctuary. A statement shared by the sanctuary said they had been forced to take the step.
Mr Jones runs the sanctuary with his partner Patricia Webb at Festival Park in Ebbw Vale. The pair rehabilitate and care for injured, abandoned and uncared-for wild owls, hawks and falcons, with the main aim of releasing them back into the wild. Around 60 birds that cannot be released remain at the sanctuary, which has allowed free public visits.
Future operations
Going forward, Mr Jones and his partner will continue caring for the birds and rescuing any that need help. The sanctuary will be allowed to open for six days a year without a licence and will announce which days these will be once a decision is made. Volunteers will still be accepted, and members of the public can sponsor birds or make monthly donations.
In the statement posted on social media, the sanctuary said: "It is with a very heavy heart that we have to announce the closure to the public of our site. Unfortunately, we are governed by a Zoo Licence in order for the public to visit. It has become harder and harder to meet their expectations. With the added interruption of people coming into our sanctuary and then making complaints to Trading Standards."
Final day and public response
The sanctuary encouraged people to visit before the closure and "cheer up" volunteers, with the final day open to the public set for 31 August 2026. Mr Jones thanked the public for their support over the last two decades, saying in the statement: "I hope our haters are very proud of themselves. An 87-year-old man is heartbroken; Malcolm has dedicated the last 40 years to protecting and helping these beautiful birds, allowing visitors free entry so that all children have access to nature."
A Blaenau Gwent Council spokesperson said: "We have been made aware that the owl sanctuary has decided to change how it operates and reduce access for the public. We have worked with the sanctuary over many years to support them in meeting the requirements of their licence, which can be subject to change to reflect standards of modern zoo practice."
