Rescue centre demands answers after Randfontein SPCA euthanises four baby owls

Four baby owls were euthanised by the Randfontein SPCA after the Owl Rescue Centre arranged for the branch to collect them, the rescue centre said. The centre said the animals were put down within two hours of initial contact, while a volunteer was on the way to the SPCA. The incident was reported on 20 July 2026.

Dispute over timeline and recorded calls

The Owl Rescue Centre said it had arranged for the Randfontein SPCA to collect the owls and that the branch manager decided to euthanise them while the centre’s volunteer was en route. The centre told the NSPCA it had submitted a formal statement on 30 June with “the exact timeline of our dealings with the Randfontein SPCA inspector.”

According to the rescue centre, the NSPCA has had time to review phone calls, “which we were told are recorded by the inspector himself.”

NSPCA launches investigation

The NSPCA acknowledged public and wildlife organisations’ concern about the euthanasia and said an investigation is under way. In a statement quoted by the source, the NSPCA said:

“The NSPCA wishes to assure the public that this matter has our full attention and that we will pursue it thoroughly, independently, and without fear or favour, until every relevant fact is established. If the evidence points to procedural shortcomings, misconduct, or any contravention of legislation or policy, the NSPCA will take the appropriate action available to it in law.”

The NSPCA said the investigation would take four weeks.

Rescue centre voices frustration

The Owl Rescue Centre expressed impatience with the inquiry and questioned the NSPCA’s handling of the matter. The centre said, “The NSPCA is [grasping] at straws to make this go away. But without accountability, without the humility to admit when a grave wrong has occurred, you cannot change. The behaviour simply continues, and more animals fall victim to the system.”

Pathology examinations under way

The owl carcasses have been submitted to an independent veterinary pathologist for full post-mortem examinations, including histopathological analysis, the source reported.

What happens next

The NSPCA said it will pursue the matter until “every relevant fact is established.” The rescue centre has called for answers while the investigation proceeds.