Short-Eared Owl

About the same size as the barn owl but with long wings, short-eared owls breed in northern England and Scotland but can be seen more widely in winter. They nest on the ground in scraped-out hollows lined with grass and downy feathers.

How to Identify

Short-eared owls are mottled yellowy-brown above, paler underneath and have dark circles around their yellow eyes. Short ‘ear’ tufts give them their common name. The very similar long-eared owl is darker with orangey-red eyes and long ear tufts and is more nocturnal, usually being found near woodland.

Where to Find

Nests on moorlands and young conifer plantations in north and west Britain. Winters in the lowlands, particularly wet grasslands and around the coast.

How People Can Help

Short-eared owls are threatened by habitat loss and agricultural intensification. The Wildlife Trusts are working closely with farmers and landowners to promote wildlife-friendly practices. We are working towards a ‘Living Landscape’: a network of habitats and wildlife corridors across town and country which are good for both wildlife and people. You can support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.

Did you know?

Some short-eared owls migrate here from the continent for the winter and can occasionally be seen flying in off the sea.