Owls found in Lindisfarne Castle toilet chute Published duration 25 October 2017

image copyright National Trust image caption An exclusion zone has been set up to protect the birds

A family of barn owls has been discovered nesting in a castle's latrine chute.

The birds were found at Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island in Northumberland during a £3m restoration.

The National Trust said a 65ft (20m) exclusion zone had been set up to protect the two adults and four chicks.

image copyright National Trust image caption The birds have set up nest in a latrine chute

The four chicks are believed to be days from fledging.

Matthew Oates, nature specialist at the National Trust, said: "We need to allow nature to move in where it chooses, and give it the time and space it needs."

image copyright National Trust image caption A £3m restoration is being carried out of the Grade I listed castle

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