A 'hoot' was had in Laois on Friday, as the participants of the recent Laois Partnership Company event in Portlaoise got an extra treat served up with their tea and biscuits!

A real-life television star dropped into Laois Partnership headquarters during a Connect Café coffee morning.

Unfortunately, no autographs were available, as the special guest is better at gripping perches than pens!

Dave the Raven, who has featured in the popular historical drama series Vikings, was one of the adorable birds brought along by Dave and Shay of Raven Haven Aviaries, for a community event organised to coincide with Social Prescribing Day 2026. 

Pictured: Laois Partnership Company's Cassia O'Neill with Dave the Raven

Besides the imposing raven, several fluffy-breasted owls were also on display, with members of the public afforded a chance to hold the birds and learn more about the habitat and habits of these majestic creatures. 

"Raven Haven Aviaries are breeders and exhibitors of native birds and birds of prey, whose knowledge, experience and professionalism ensure the highest quality care is bestowed on these monarchs of the skies," Laois Partnership Company praised.

Pictured: Organiser Shauna Williams with an owl

"The crowd discovered that in the wild, a barn owl may only live for around three years, but the one under the stewardship of Dave and Shay has already reached the ripe age of 16." 

The event was organised by our Social Prescribing Link Worker, Shauna Williams, who has been running the Connect Café in Portlaoise for over a year now in conjunction with Alone and Mental Health Ireland.

Pictured: Laois locals mingle with the gorgeous birds

"Connect Cafés have long been promoted as a means of boosting social inclusion, by providing a safe and welcoming space for people to meet over a cup of tea or coffee to enjoy a casual chat and make new friends," the organisation said.

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The aim of Social Prescribing is to improve health and wellbeing by supporting individuals to connect with their community and foster positive relationships through involvement in community-based groups and activities.