Care home residents had a “hoot” when they enjoyed a visit from some feathered friends.

King’s Lynn Residential care home invited Norfolk Owls to the Kettlewell Lane home where handler Richard, introduced each of the different owls to the residents, with many taking the opportunity to hold the beautiful creatures using the gloves provided.

The residents were enthralled by the birds as Richard, who has been keeping birds to prey for almost 30 years, offered a magnificent experience by giving them the opportunity to get up close and personal with the beautiful creatures.

He explained how each breed of owl has different ways to see – with some preferring night-time to seek out their prey, while others also hunt in the daytime. He explained what their main diet comprises and how much they need to eat each day.

A spokesperson said: “Residents held the owls in gloves and were amazed by how calm they were, with some of the birds even emitting a cat-like purr to show how settled they were in the care home environment.”

Activities co-ordinator Jo Taylor, who organised the visit, said: “We always like to put on as many different activities as possible for the residents, so we were really excited about welcoming Richard and his owls.

“So many residents got to hold them and stroke their soft feathers and were fascinated to learn more about them.”

The care home had to cancel some of its Christmas events due to an outbreak of a flu-like illness, but is now all clear and is planning to hold an ABBA-related party to make up for the cancellations.

The care home provides short-term, respite care and longer-term support for up to 45 people, including those living with dementia. King’s Lynn Residential won the Customer Care Award at last year’s West Norfolk Mayor’s Business Awards.