PREVIEW

This video shows: Moose and Kettle.

Moose, a seven-year-old snowy owl residing at Birdworld in Surrey, faced life alone after her partner, Kettle, sadly passed away due to an ongoing illness over the summer.

However, she has now found love again with 20-year-old single ‘Yorkshireman’ Elk - who himself had been seeking a partner for years.

After a carefully orchestrated introduction, Moose and Elk’s blossoming relationship has warmed keepers’ hearts after the loss of Kettle.

“Kettle and Moose were together for six years and had a wonderful relationship; they kept the keepers both entertained and on their toes,” said Polly Bramham, Living Collections Manager at Birdworld.

“Kettle was a firm favourite among keepers and visitors alike. Never shy, he would sit prominently in his enclosure, giving passersby an intense, yellow-eyed stare. If he spotted his keeper, he’d add a friendly ‘Hoo!’ and head bob. He was an attentive partner, always bringing Moose gifts of food and fiercely protecting her during nesting season.”

The pair even successfully hatched chicks in 2022, as Moose and Kettle learned over the years to build a proper nest and sit through the full incubation period. Sadly their chicks didn’t survive, but the tragedy only strengthened their bond.

However, more tragedy struck when their love story was cut short as Kettle passed away this summer.

Keepers were determined that Moose would not live out a lonely life of widowhood, however, and sought out Elk - who has also been looking for love.

“We were thrilled to find the incredibly handsome Elk, who we introduced to Moose as her neighbour before they were finally put in the same enclosure,” Polly explained.

“Partnering new mates can be a nerve-racking experience for keepers, especially when there’s potential for conflict. Fortunately, we were confident Moose and Elk’s laid-back personalities would allow for a smooth introduction.

“They didn’t disappoint – Moose ran up to Elk, nudged his face with hers, and then casually returned to her favourite tree stump to observe from a distance. Elk explored his new home, even settling into Kettle’s old spot, as though stepping right into his shoes.”

Kettle may be gone, but is not forgotten though - as he has been immortalised as a mascot helping guide children through the park.

“We’re delighted to see Moose beginning a new chapter with Elk,” said James Robson, General Manager at Birdworld.

“We’re equally pleased to pay tribute to Kettle, whose namesake now features in the park’s latest attraction, the Owl Academy, as ‘Professor Kettle,’ guiding children through learning and play. Kettle was such a beloved character at Birdworld, and it’s heartwarming to know that his memory will continue to inspire and educate others.”