Sakata Seed: A Partnership for Sustainable Rodent Control

We facilitated the release of two young Barn Owls (Tyto alba) at Sakata Seed. This collaboration is part of our ongoing effort to naturally manage rodent populations while supporting Barn Owl conservation, reflecting the perfect blend of sustainable agriculture and wildlife preservation.

We are also delighted to share that this story has been featured in Farmers Weekly. Thank you to Farmers Weekly for publishing it! You can read the full article here.

When the owls arrived at Sakata Seed, Arjen van Zwieten, a registered bird ringer, and Fanus van der Merwe, Quality Systems Manager at Sakata, placed rings K57730 and K57731 on the owls. The young Barn Owls were placed in a release box for a 21-day acclimatization period. During this time, they receive daily care and feeding from Fanus van der Merwe, ensuring their smooth transition into their new environment. After their release, Fanus will continue to provide food, acting as a surrogate parent to help the owls thrive. 

Our collaboration with Sakata Seed stands as a shining example of how agriculture and conservation can work hand in hand. By creating a safe and supportive habitat, these young Barn Owls will not only flourish but also play a crucial role in controlling rodent populations.

Since the project's inception in 2020, we have installed eight Barn Owl boxes and eight artificial perches at Sakata Seed. These installations are serviced twice a year to ensure the best possible conditions for the owls to roost and breed. By embracing natural pest control methods, Sakata Seed significantly reduces the need for chemical interventions, fostering a healthier ecosystem. This initiative supports rodent control and contributes to the broader conservation of Barn Owls.