![]() The tawny owl is the familiar too-whit too-whoo owl that is nocturnal and mostly heard at night. ![]() Loss of habitats and nest sites is an ongoing problem, the use of insecticides in agriculture impacts on the little owl’s insect prey and research is continuing into fledgling mortality rates and the causes. Prey: Worms, insects, invertebrates, small mammals, small birds etcĬonservation issues: Little owls have declined heavily in recent years. Nesting: Nests in hollows in trees, walls, barns etc, rabbit burrows, cliff holes. Little owls are a di-urnal species, often seen out during the day time, sat up on telegraph poles or on the tops of farm buildings.Įstimated breeding population (2009): 6000 – 11,000prs Our smallest owl – little owls are found all over England and Wales and have now established themselves over the Scottish border. Introduced to the UK in the 19th Century, the little owl has become a permanent resident in the UK. There are six species of owl that breed in the UK, plus the snowy owl – which still occurs, but hasn’t been recorded as breeding since the early seventies. This is a warning sign that other wildlife, which depends on these habitats – such as bats, butterflies, insects, and other wildlife – may be under threat. If owls are in decline, it is usually because their rough grassland hunting habitats are declining. A toe that swivels so talons can be used 2+2 for squeezing prey or 3+1 for gripping a branch.īirds of prey are regarded as ‘Indicator’ species, giving conservationists an early warning of the health of the food chain and the wider environment should they start to decline.Different size ear openings that can hear at different frequencies.Asymmetrical ear openings to help ears work independently (ie.not in stereo). ![]() Round facial discs with special feathers to ‘catch’ sound and direct the sound into the ear openings.Soft feathers with a comb-like ‘fringe’ on the flight feathers which acts to displace less air when flying, aiding silent flight.Ear tufts to break up their outline and increase camouflage.Eyes that can see in almost total darkness.Each species of owl has a range of incredible features and attributes that many other birds do not possess, but which gives owls the ‘tools’ to survive. Owls have evolved as specialised hunters with skills to help them locate and catch their prey. ![]()
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