Least Concern Long-eared Owl
Asio otus
Also known as: Lesser Horned Owl
The Long-eared Owl is a secretive and nocturnal bird found in coniferous forests and dense woodlands. Its name comes from the long feather tufts on its head, which are not ears but are used for signalling mood and breaking up its outline for camouflage. In winter, these owls are known to form communal roosts, sometimes with dozens of individuals in a single tree.
Did you know?
Despite their name, the 'ears' are actually feather tufts used for camouflage and communication, not hearing. Quick Facts
Detailed Information on the Long-eared Owl
Weight
0.3 kg
Height
37 cm
Length
38 cm
Wingspan
95 cm
Top Speed
30
km/h
Social Structure:
Solitary (Communal roosts in winter)
Activity Pattern:
Nocturnal
Trophic Level: Carnivore
Migration: Partially migratory
Population Trend: Decreasing
Main Threats:
- Habitat loss
- Intensive farming
Zrenjanin (Serbia)
The Fens (UK)
Family: Strigidae
Order: Strigiformes
