POLICE are asking eagle-eyed residents to keep a look out for a giant owl that has escaped from its falconer owner in Great Sankey.

The 2ft 6in tall eagle owl called Mumble has a five to six foot wing span and was last seen by his owner yesterday.

He is around 15 weeks old and was hand-reared so is accustomed to being around people.

A police spokesman said: "Due to his size police are advising people that if they do sight him they should contact police immediately and not approach him."

Mumble is described as having brown feathers, orange eyes, big ear tufts and large feet.

Police are currently investigating a possible sighting of the bird of prey in woods in Great Sankey.

The police spokesman added: "The owl would usually feed off insects or small animals such as hares and rabbits so this would impact on local people who have pets outdoors.

"Normally during the day an owl would roost in the trees and be out at night but he is a hand-reared owl used to being in a cage and not to being at large."

Any sightings of Mumble should be reported to police on 0845 4580000.