STAFF at Broadlands retirement home in Minehead thought residents were having a bit of a hoot when they reported who had found a sunny spot on their windowsill.

But this was no tall tale - Pixie the European eagle owl had very much made himself at home on a resident's bedroom windowsill after escaping from his aviary at Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre in Allerford.

And much to the delight of both residents and staff, he was in no hurry to move after flying in on Tuesday afternoon.

They were able to get within inches of their uninvited guest, who was completely at ease despite the stir he was causing.

Cathy Powell of the owl and hawk centre said it was wonderful that everyone at Broadlands was enjoying his visit, and it was just a case of waiting for Pixie to get hungry before a falconer tried to tempt him down with a tasty titbit.

Unfortunately, an attempt to recapture him on Wednesday afternoon failed and at 10.30pm that evening he took to the wing and disappeared.

Anyone who spots him is being asked to contact the Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre on 01643 862816.