Staff at an owl sanctuary fear five owls that were let loose after a break-in could starve if they are not found quickly.
Three captive-bred eagle owls, a tawny owl and a burrowing owl are missing from Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, at Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, after criminals cut the padlocks to its aviaries overnight.
Manager Andy Hulme said he believed the break-in could have been down to animal rights activists, as nothing had been stolen.
"Anyone who's done this and calls themselves an animal lover is very misguided," he said.
"We're very worried about the five birds that are out, especially the burrowing owl, which is very small. The honest truth is if we don't get it back in three days it could die of starvation."
One of the eagle owls is sandy-coloured, another is grey and the third is dark brown, with all three described as 'buzzard-size', while the burrowing owl is cream.
The tawny owl is the only bird that is native to Britain, Mr Hulme said.
Anyone who thinks they have seen any of the birds should contact the sanctuary on 01449 711425.
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