Best known for his role as devoted partner to Gylfie and dedicated parent to generations of their owlets, Dryer was beloved by fans of this channel far and wide. So when he passed away during the 2026 breeding season, Fotherdale lost a legend.
Barn owl Dryer
Fotherdale's main resident male barn owl and loyal partner to Gylfie, Dryer was loved by fans around the world. Charmed by his engaging character, a clear love of rain showers, clumsy courtship style and endearing fascination for eggs, his antics won him a place in hearts around the world. Best known for his role as devoted partner to Gylfie, during their seven years together they raised nine chicks of their own and even a foster chick - a considerable progeny given when he first me Gylfie he was so hopelessly clumsy she had to demonstrate how to mate.
A protective owl parent
He soon learned the ropes and went on to become an excellent parent - delivering a bounty of food to generations of chicks and bravely guarding the nest against intruders. But few realised the extent of this owl's early struggles - and in fact how he got his name. In this touching tribute to a beloved barn owl, wildlife rehabilitator Jean Thorpe shares the story of how Dryer came close to death as a chick.
He became a beloved barn owl
Despite his harrowing early life, Dryer went on to become one of this channel's most beloved owls. He leaves his partner Gylfie and two chicks, Oak & Acorn.
