Short-eared Owl

An owl seen flying over open, grassy areas or along the edges of a marsh during the
day is most likely a Short-eared Owl. In winter, it is especially noticeable around
hedgerows. It feeds almost entirely on field mice or voles, and it is most active at dawn
and dusk but can be seen at any time of day. It relies on
both sight and sound to find its prey, and you may see it
come to a quick pause in mid-air to check out some
movement it has spotted in the grass.
The Short-eared Owl is present throughout the year
around the outskirts of the city. It is most abun-
dant in winter when small flocks of 10 to 20 birds
may be found roosting communally on the shel-
tered side of dikes on Sea and Iona islands.
Similar Species: Northern Harrier (p. 53):
female and immature have white rump
and small head. Barn Owl (p. 87):
unstreaked underparts; white, heart-
shaped facial disk. Long-eared Owl:

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