Short-eared Owl
Short-eared Owl
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1 day ago
The Short-eared Owl is a medium-sized owl of open grasslands and wetlands, known for its largely diurnal and crepuscular hunting habits. It has small ear tufts that are often not visible.
Where to spot
Open habitats like grasslands, marshes, tundra, and agricultural fields across North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of South America.
How to spot
Look for its distinctive buoyant, moth-like flight over open fields, often flying low. Note its pale underparts, prominent dark wrist patches on the underwing, and short or absent ear tufts. Its flight is often erratic.
When to spot
Active during the day, especially at dawn and dusk, making it one of the easiest owls to observe. Can be seen hunting for rodents even in broad daylight.
Where to spot
Open habitats like grasslands, marshes, tundra, and agricultural fields across North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of South America.
How to spot
Look for its distinctive buoyant, moth-like flight over open fields, often flying low. Note its pale underparts, prominent dark wrist patches on the underwing, and short or absent ear tufts. Its flight is often erratic.
When to spot
Active during the day, especially at dawn and dusk, making it one of the easiest owls to observe. Can be seen hunting for rodents even in broad daylight.
Credits:
Rita Willaert
Short-eared Owls often nest directly on the ground in open habitats, a relatively uncommon behavior among owls. Their ear tufts are rarely visible in the field, despite their name.
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