ExploreBird

Long-eared Owl

Asio otus

The Long-eared Owl has long tufts of feathers on its head that look like ears! This owl is very good at hiding in trees during the day.

Habitat: Woodlands and parks

Appearance

The Long-eared Owl has prominent, dark ear tufts that resemble ears but are just feathers. Its slender body is covered in streaky brown and gray-buff plumage. It features piercing orange-yellow eyes set in a pale facial disc, making it distinct.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderStrigiformesFamilyStrigidaeGenusAsio

Long-eared Owl

Interesting facts

Baby Long-eared Owls hiss like snakes to scare away intruders from their nest.

Their 'ears' are just feathers; their real ears are hidden under them!

These owls can spin their heads almost all the way around to spot prey!

They often use old nests built by other birds, especially crows or magpies.

Special abilities

Long-eared Owls have asymmetrical ear openings that help them pinpoint prey sounds in total darkness.

Long-eared Owls have specialized feathers with serrated edges that help them fly almost silently.

Long-eared Owls can stretch their bodies thin and sway to look like a broken branch, confusing predators.

Measurements & details

Length: 31-40 cm
Wingspan: 90-100 cm
Weight: 0.22-0.37 kg
Lifespan: 4-8 years
Top Speed: 45 km/h
Clutch Size: 3-10
Incubation: 25-30 days
Migration Distance: 1000 km

Diet & Feeding

They primarily hunt small mammals like voles and mice with amazing precision.

Primary Foods

Voles
Mice
Shrews
Small Birds
Bats

Foraging Method

Ambush

Ecological connections

hunts

Meadow Vole

Microtus pennsylvanicus

Primary food source in many habitats.

hunts

Deer Mouse

Peromyscus maniculatus

Another key prey, especially in woodland areas.

eaten by

Great Horned Owl

Bubo virginianus

Can sometimes prey on juvenile Long-eared Owls.

shelters

American Crow

Corvus brachyrhynchos

Often uses abandoned nests of crows for breeding.

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Feathered

These are animals covered in soft, beautiful feathers that help them fly, stay warm, and even attract mates! Think of all the amazing birds you know.

Social

Discover creatures that love to live and work together! These animals form groups, helping each other find food, stay safe, and raise their young.

Arboreal

Climb high with animals who love living in trees! These agile creatures find their food, shelter, and even raise their families among the branches.

Forest

These lush habitats are filled with countless trees, offering homes to a huge variety of plants and animals! Immerse yourself in the green canopy.

Carnivorous

Discover fierce hunters and clever predators that get all their energy from eating other animals. They play a vital role in keeping nature's balance.

Keystone Species

Discover the hidden heroes of nature! These special species play an incredibly important role in their habitat, holding the entire ecosystem together like a crucial piece of a puzzle.