Long-eared Owls are slender, nocturnal owls known for their tall, closely-set ear tufts that resemble “ears,” cryptic camouflage for roosting in dense trees, and silent flight for hunting in open areas like meadows. Often communal in winter roosts, they are masters of concealment, using their narrow, vertical posture to vanish against tree trunks.
Key Characteristics:
- Appearance: Medium-sized, slender owl with long, close-set black ear tufts. Intense orange facial disc with vertical white markings between the eyes. Cryptic brown and buff plumage with heavy streaks and barring.
- Senses: Excellent asymmetrical hearing (like most owls) for pinpointing prey under vegetation or snow. Very keen night vision.
- Movement: Extremely silent, buoyant flight on long wings. When alarmed, it stretches its body and raises its ear tufts to become incredibly thin and camouflaged against a tree.
- Diet: Carnivore, primarily small mammals (voles, mice). Hunts over open country at night, often flying low.
- Behavior: Nocturnal and secretive. Roosts communally (sometimes dozens) in dense thickets or conifers in winter. Highly vocal during breeding season with a low, resonant “hoo-hoo-hoo” call.
- Habitat: Found across North America, Europe, and Asia. Prefers a mix of dense woodlands or shelterbelts for roosting/nesting and adjacent open fields for hunting.