Tawny Owl
NameTawny Owl
Common NameTawny Owl
Scientific NameStrix aluco
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)99
Length (cm)41.5
Weight (g)592.5
Plumage DetailsPlumage is typically mottled brown and grey, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. The underparts are paler with dark streaking. It has a prominent facial disc that frames its dark eyes, and lacks ear tufts.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its classic 'hoo-hoo-oooo' hooting call, often described as a quavering 'kewick-kewick-kewick-kewick-kewick' followed by a drawn-out 'hoo-hoo-oooo'. Females often give a sharp 'ke-wick' call.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across temperate Eurasia, from Great Britain and the Iberian Peninsula eastwards to western Siberia, and south to North Africa.
Identifying FeaturesDark, almost black eyes, Rounded head with no ear tufts, Mottled brown and grey plumage for camouflage, Distinctive hooting call, Nocturnal activity
Description
The Tawny Owl is a medium-sized, stocky owl with a rounded head and large, dark eyes. It is primarily nocturnal, hunting small mammals and birds in woodlands and urban areas. Its excellent camouflage allows it to blend seamlessly into tree bark during the day.
