Long-eared Owl Asio otus

Long-eared Owl
Asio otus

 Long-eared Owl  Asio otus

Status: Widespread resident throughout Ireland. The owl species most likely to be seen in Ireland.

Conservation Concern: Green-listed in Ireland. The European population is currently evaluated as Secure.

Identification: Infrequently seen during the day, only active late at night. Most frequently seen flying across road in car head-lights. Appears a largely white, with a dark comma marking on the underwing. If seen during the day, has intricate pattern of brown and black streaks all-over. Has two obvious tufts on the head (do not serve as ears!) and orange eyes. Juveniles are beige, with an obvious black face mask.

Similar Species: Short-eared Owl, Barn Owl.

Call: Rather silent outside of the breeding season. Gives a rather quiet hooting display. Juveniles beg with a high-pitched squeak reminiscent of a rusty gate.

Diet: Hunts small mammals, frogs and birds. Has been observed taking migrant birds disorientated at lighthouses and other bright lights.

Breeding: Breeds in lowlands throughout Ireland, usually in a stand of conifers.

Wintering: Largely resident, though young birds will wander in search of new territories. During winter, may occasionally gather in communal roosts of between 5 and 30 birds.

Where to See: Widespresad throughout Ireland, but difficult to observe due to nocturnal habits. Best found by listening for the distinctive calls of adults and young.




   Mohosin Ali Angur

Sabdar Ali Market, Boro Bazar, Main Road, Meherpur, Bangladesh. Mobile: 01558-406298, E-mail: editor@mujibnagarkhabor.com