Tawny Owl

The Tawny owl is the most common and widespread British owl.. One thing about this owl is that they are more often heard than seen.

Characteristics:

The Tawny owl produces a variety of vocalizations including their 'ke-wick' contact calls. They have a compact body and a large rounded head. Their colour varies from greyish to reddish brown with black and white streaks. They have a wingspan of 81-96 cm and a length of 37-43 cm. Both genders have a similar appearance.

Biology.

The Tawny owl feeds mostly on small animals such as voles and insects. They will occupy their favorite perch then swoop down on any passing prey. They inedible remains of pray such as bones and fur are formed into owl pellets. Mating season is in the autumn and 2-4 eggs will be laid in March or April. Each eggs takes approximately 30 days of incubation before hatching.

Range and Habitat:

Widespread and numerous in Britain, but scarce in North Scotland. They can also be found anywhere from Spain to China and as far south as North Africa. They typically live in broad leaved and mixed woodland areas. But they can also inhabit hedgerows, parkland, churchyards, farmland and coniferous forests. In winter they will find shelter in unused buildings and rock cavities.

Status:

They are classified as least concern and are not currently threatened by anything.

Information from http://www.arkive.org/tawny-owl/strix-aluco/

Photo Credit: loriecampbell.com and http://www.arkive.org/tawny-owl/strix-aluco/