ExploreBirds

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
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Long-eared Owl

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

2/5 · Low

Snaps

6

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

Ability

Super Hearing

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

Ability

Silent Hunter

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

Ability

Mimic Master

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

Traits

Also known as

Eurasian Long-eared Owl

Collections

Safety

Danger

2/5 · Low

Watch quietly from a distance and never try to feed or chase wild animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Long-eared Owl?

The easiest way to identify Long-eared Owl is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How long is Long-eared Owl?

31-40 cm

What is Long-eared Owl's wingspan?

90-100 cm

How much does Long-eared Owl weigh?

0.22-0.37 kg

How long does Long-eared Owl live?

4-8 years

How fast can Long-eared Owl move?

45 km/h

What does Long-eared Owl eat?

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

Where is Long-eared Owl usually found?

Woodlands and parks

Snap Map

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