© Photo by Luke Massey/2020VISION Little Owl Athene Noctua The diminutive little owl is diurnal and hunts invertebrates, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians and small birds. © Photo By Andy Rouse/2020VISION It’s often seen perched on telegraph poles, on branches in old trees in parkland or along hedgerows, or on rocks, from where it quietly scans the ground for prey. Once spotted, the little owl swoops down and catches its victim with either its claws or beak. Little owls breed between March and August, forming monogamous pairs and nesting in hollow trees. How to Identify Unmistakable: the little owl is a small, brown, short-tailed, yellow-eyed owl. Where to find England, Wales and southern Scotland. How People Can Help In some parts of Europe, the little owl is undergoing declines due to changing farming practices, road deaths and persecution. Therefore, the population of little owls in Britain could be important in the future. The Wildlife Trusts manage nature reserves across town and country to benefit all kinds of wildlife. Help us to help wildlife by joining, volunteering or getting involved in a campaign. Did you know? The little owl was introduced to Britain from the continent in the 19th century. Key FactsLength: 21-23cmWingspan: 56cmWeight: 180gAverage lifespan: 3 years Donate Donate to help support Little Owl and other wildlife. Donate Similar Species Barn Owl Birds Black-Headed Gull Birds Blackbird Birds Blackcap Birds Blue Tit