Eagle owls at Falu Copper Mine expect chicks any day, raising concerns ahead of Walpurgis celebrations next week. Falu municipality is adapting the event with on-site staff and a fireworks ban to protect the birds.
After several years without activity in the nest box at Stora Stöten, eagle owls have returned to their breeding site at Falu Copper Mine. The female is incubating eggs expected to hatch any day.
Several private individuals have voiced concerns about the impact of Walpurgis Night celebrations on the owls. In response, Falu municipality will deploy order resources and staff during the event. A master of ceremonies will inform attendees about the birds and remind them that bangers and fireworks are prohibited on site.
"The celebration will proceed with precautionary measures in place and readiness to act if the situation changes," said Patrik Söderqvist, communications chief at Falu municipality.
Länsstyrelsen Dalarna noted that eagle owls are not uncommon in areas with disturbances, but the adaptations aim to minimize risks.
