Long-Eared Owl

Asio otus

The Long-eared Owl is medium-sized owl, smaller in size than a woodpigeon.

It often looks long and thin, with head feathers (known as ear tufts even though they are not ears) which it raises when alarmed. It is buff-brown with darker brown streaks, and deep orange eyes. It breeds thinly across the UK with fewer birds in the south-west and Wales. Northern birds migrate southwards, including birds from Europe coming to spend the winter in the UK, while southern birds are residents and only move short distances to find food.

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Discover more about the Long Eared Owl

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Where to see

Long-eared owls trend to favour coniferous forests which is close to areas suitable for hunting like fields.

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When to see

This species of owl is the most nocturnal so would rarely be seen during the day. During the winter, their numbers are increased by migrants so more of a chance to see these owls would be over winter.

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Did you know?

During the winter, these owls nest in roosts known as 'parliments'.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Long-eared owls trend to favour coniferous forests which is close to areas suitable for hunting like fields.

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

This species of owl is the most nocturnal so would rarely be seen during the day. During the winter, their numbers are increased by migrants so more of a chance to see these owls would be over winter.

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

During the winter, these owls nest in roosts known as 'parliments'.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Long-eared owls trend to favour coniferous forests which is close to areas suitable for hunting like fields.

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

This species of owl is the most nocturnal so would rarely be seen during the day. During the winter, their numbers are increased by migrants so more of a chance to see these owls would be over winter.

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

During the winter, these owls nest in roosts known as 'parliments'.