Long-eared Owl

owl · nocturnal · predator · forest

Fancy ear tufts. The long-eared owl has striking feather tufts on its head that look like ears, but they're not actually for hearing! The owl's real ears are hidden on the sides of its head, and the tufts help it blend in with tree bark.

Widespread hunter. This owl lives across Europe, Asia, and North America in forests and woodlands. It's a medium-sized owl that hunts small creatures like mice and voles under the cover of darkness.

Part of typical owls. Long-eared owls belong to the family Strigidae, which includes most of the owls in the world. These owls are masters of silent flight and incredible hearing.

Night specialist. Like all owls, the long-eared owl is nocturnal, meaning it hunts and is most active at night. Its large forward-facing eyes and rotating head help it spot prey in dim light.