Potter owl farm in RSPCA inquiry

A former falconry centre in West Yorkshire that supplied owls for a Harry Potter film is being investigated by the RSPCA.

Several birds of prey were removed from Old Park Farm in Eastmoor, Wakefield, after concerns were raised about the welfare of the animals.

In 2005, nine eagle owls kept at the council-owned site were used in film Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

A RSPCA spokeswoman confirmed an investigation was under way.

'Poor condition'

The birds appeared in a scene in which Harry goes back to the owlery to send a letter to his godfather Sirius Black.

It is not thought any of the birds used in the Warner Brothers film were among those removed by the RSPCA.

Councillor Ron Halliday said: "The poor condition of some of the birds were brought to our attention and we had no option but to call in the RSPCA."

The RSPCA spokeswoman said: "I can confirm an operation to remove a number of birds from Old Park Farm did take place.

"As this is an active investigation, the society is unable to give any further details at this stage."