Tawny Owl
Strix aluco
Aves › Strigiformes › Strigidae › Strix
Conservation status: least_concern
The Tawny Owl is a stocky, round-headed woodland owl that comes in two color variations—grey or reddish-brown—making it one of Europe's most adaptable owls despite its relatively small size. It's most famous for its distinctive hooting call, a series of "hoo-hoo-hoo" sounds that echo through forests at night and make it one of the most recognizable owl voices across its range.
How To Identify
The tawny owl is a medium-sized bird characterized by rich shades of tawny, brown, and white plumage. Its distinctive ear tufts are often used for display or camouflage, and its striking facial patterning adds to its generally mysterious appearance.
Habitat
The Tawny Owl lives in deciduous woodland, parks, and large gardens.
Behaviour
The Tawny Owl is a strictly nocturnal species that hunts small mammals by sound.
Native Range
The tawny owl is commonly found in woodlands across Europe as well as western Siberia.
Did You Know?
The classic 'tu-whit tu-whoo' is actually a duet — the female calls 'ke-wick', the male replies 'hooo'.
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