Introduction: Long-Eared Owl Overview

The Long-Eared Owl (Asio otus) is a medium-sized owl species that is found in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. It is a nocturnal bird that is typically active during the night and sleeps during the day. The Long-Eared Owl is known for its distinctive long ear tufts, which are feathers on the top of its head that resemble ears but are not actually ears.

The Long-Eared Owl is often confused with the Great Horned Owl because of its ear tufts, but there are significant differences between the two species. The Long-Eared Owl is smaller than the Great Horned Owl and has a more slender body. It also has a different facial pattern and a smaller beak. Despite these differences, the Long-Eared Owl is a fascinating bird that is worth learning more about.

Physical Characteristics of the Long-Eared Owl

The Long-Eared Owl is a medium-sized owl that typically measures between 13 and 16 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to 39 inches. It weighs between 7 and 16 ounces. The Long-Eared Owl has distinctive long ear tufts that are usually 1.5 to 2 inches long. These tufts are not actually ears but are feathers that help the owl to blend in with its environment and to communicate with other owls.

The Long-Eared Owl has a reddish-brown facial disc and yellow eyes. Its feathers are mottled brown and white, which helps it to blend in with tree bark and leaves. The Long-Eared Owl has a long tail and long wings that are pointed at the tips, which allows it to fly silently through the air. The Long-Eared Owl also has sharp talons and a powerful beak that it uses to catch and kill prey.