Pupils in classes 4 and 5 from North Tawton Primary School had a special visitor recently — local author David Chaffe from Weare Giffard visited with his daughter's barn owl, 'Phantom'.
David has written and published two books about wildlife, Face to Face With Nature and Stormforce — An Otter's Tale.
He encourages local businesses to donate copies of his books to schools and, in return, visits the school to give a talk to the children.
Thanks were expressed to Martin's, the local butchers, for donating the books and making the visit possible.
David discussed how the barn owl has evolved to become a highly organised and successful hunter. Through discussion and observation of 'Phantom' the children were encouraged to consider why, given its excellent hearing, accurate vision, silent flight, and strong talons, barn owls are becoming so rare.
The pupils enjoyed the afternoon which was a perfect follow up to their science week which was spent exploring the wild variety of plant and animal life present in the school grounds.
David is pictured with 'Phantom' and pupils from North Tawton Community Primary School with copies of the books donated by Martin's.