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The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
Tawny owl at nestbox Dusk, Lincolnshire Tawny owl in tree
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Tawny owl

Green conservation status

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Latin name

Strix aluco

Family

Owls (Strigidae)

Overview

The tawny owl is an owl the size of a pigeon. It has a rounded body and head, with a ring of dark feathers around its face surrounding the dark eyes. It is mainly reddish brown above and paler underneath. It is a widespread breeding species in England, Wales and Scotland but not found in Ireland. Birds are mainly residents with established pairs probably never leaving their territories. Young birds disperse from breeding grounds in autumn.

Where to see them

The tawny owl is nocturnal so it is often heard calling at night, but much less often seen. In the daytime, you may see one only if you disturb it inadvertently from its roost site in woodland up against a tree trunk or among ivy. Look for pellets below roosting places.

When to see them

All year round.

What they eat

Small mammals and rodents, small birds, frogs, fish, insects and worms.

Estimated numbers

EuropeUK breeding*UK wintering*UK passage*
-19,400 pairs--

* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn.

Distribution

Key

Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.

Find out more

  • Videos

Audio is from commercial recordings Bird Songs and Calls of Britain and Europe on 4 CDs or Bird Sounds of Europe & North-west Africa, copyright WildSounds & CEBA (www.wildsounds.com, (UK) +44 (0) 1263 741100)

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2 illustrations

12

Illustrations
Tawny owl

Tawny owl

Tawny owl - juvenile

Tawny owl - juvenile

Similar birds

Short-eared owl (illustration)

Short-eared owl

Long-eared owl (illustration)

Long-eared owl

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About the RSPB

The RSPB speaks out for birds and wildlife, tackling the problems that threaten our environment. We rely upon memberships and donations to fund our work. Nature is amazing - help us keep it that way. More...

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More news...

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© 2008 The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Charity registered in England and Wales no 207076, in Scotland no SC037654
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Last published: 14/06/2008 02:10:21
Show/hide picture credits
Tawny owl at nestbox - Steve Round
Dusk, Lincolnshire - Graham Catley
Tawny owl in tree - Nigel Blake
Bird illustrations by Mike Langman (RSPB)