EAGLE-eyed West Somerset residents are being urged to keep a look out for a pet bird of prey, which escaped from its cage during feeding time.

Shadow the six-month-old Bengal eagle owl was being looked after at the Bishops Lydeard home of Fred Clarke, brother of science fiction author Arthur C Clarke, when he escaped at the weekend.

The grey-brown owl belongs to space engineer Dr Brian Thomas, who also lives in Bishops Lydeard, and took flight when Fred went to feed it.

He was last seen heading towards the Quantock Hills and his disappearance has been reported to both the police and the RSPCA.

However, fears are growing for the owl's wellbeing as he does not like the cold or wet.

Mr Clarke said: "Shadow is quite distinctive because he has a three-feet wingspan and there would be no mistaking him if anyone saw him.

"I've contacted the police and have also put the word out locally because I would like to retrieve him before Brian returns from holiday."

Dr Thomas has had the eagle owl since it was a baby. He has been used to a regular diet of day-old chicks, but at the weekend decided a dash for freedom was a more attractive option than a meal.

Mr Clarke said he would be really grateful if anyone who spots the bird would call him on 01823 432671 "so we can have a go an recapturing it".