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Vital Statistics
• Length: 35 - 37cm
• Weight: 200 - 400gms
• Wingspan: 90 - 100cm
• Breeding population:
2000 prs *
* Approximate figures
• Length: 35 -
• Breeding population:
2000 prs *
* Approximate figures
The ‘horned’ owl is one of the most popular effigies of English literature, this is the least known and most mysterious of British owls. Because it is the most nocturnal and strongly arboreal, it is rarely seen by day and easily escapes attention, especially in winter, when it is generally silent. It has been known by various names such as cat owl, horn coot, hornie hoolet, horn-owl, horned owl, long ears, long-horned owl, long-horned ullat and tufted owl.
Identification
The Long-eared Owl is smaller and slimmer than the Tawny Owl. It has long feather ears, orange-yellow eyes, as well as a conspicuous, well defined facial disc. Its plumage is the colour of bark. The female is often darker than the male. In flight long rather pointed wings. Active at dusk and by night; in winter often seen in loose groups.
Information from the World Owl Trust www.owls.org
Food
Feeds mainly on field mice, as well as other small rodents, shrews and birds.
Breeding
From March to June with 3 to 6 eggs. The incubation period is 27 to 28 days. The young leave the nest at 18 to 25 days, and fledge from 30 days. Breeds mainly in abandoned crows’ nests.
Habitat
Mainly found in woodland on the edge of open country; also in copses. In the Winter to be found in settlements
