Birds of prey swoop in for Cardiff care home visit

Residents at a Cardiff care home were left feeling very chirpy after a visit from some feathered friends. 

Residents at Care UK’s Llys Cyncoed, on Cyncoed Road, had a hoot of a time learning all about some unique birds of prey during a special talk delivered by Falconry UK.

Residents were able to meet, hold and interact with a variety of birds, including a white-faced owl, a Verreaux Milky Eagle owl and even a blue winged kookaburra from the land down under. The professional falconer gave residents a light-hearted talk on each species, their characteristics and how they hunt for food in the wild. 

Dewi Thomas, a resident at Llys Cyncoed, said: “The whole talk was absolutely fascinating and I learnt a lot from it. It was an amazing experience; I’ve always loved nature and the outdoors, so having the opportunity to be up close with the owl was incredible.”

The visit was part of Llys Cyncoed’s ongoing animal therapy programme, designed to enable residents to lead fulfilling lives.  

Carley Hunt, Home Manager at Llys Cyncoed, commented: “It was lovely to welcome Falconry UK to the home and give residents a unique opportunity to experience these beautiful birds up-close. We all learnt something new during the visit and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.

“It is always so heartwarming to see residents so engaged and present during these kinds of visits. Animal therapy has significant benefits for older people, especially those living with dementia, as these interactions can help reduce anxiety and really build confidence.

“I’d like to thank the expert at Falconry UK for such a wonderful day; this event was so much fun for everyone involved and we are already looking forward to their next visit.”

Llys Cyncoed is a state-of-the-art care home, designed to deliver the very best standard of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home offers a range of services, including residential, dementia and short-term respite care.