The little owl is a charming and adaptable species of owl that has successfully carved out a niche for itself in a wide range of human-modified environments across Eurasia. Unlike some of its more elusive relatives, the little owl thrives in close proximity to human habitation, often nesting in a variety of unconventional locations, including the hollows of tree trunks, cliff faces, buildings, and even abandoned rabbit burrows. This remarkable ability to adapt to diverse habitats has enabled the little owl to establish a widespread distribution throughout its range, from the Mediterranean regions of Europe to the steppes of Central Asia.
One of the most endearing aspects of the little owl’s behavior is its strong pair bond and lifelong commitment to its mate. Once a breeding pair establishes their nest site, typically in early spring, they remain faithful to each other and their territory, seldom straying far from home. This loyalty and devotion to their partnership contribute to the stability and success of their breeding efforts, ensuring the continuation of their lineage for generations to come.
Despite its diminutive size, the little owl possesses a bold and assertive demeanor that belies its stature. Weighing less than 200 grams (6.3 ounces), these compact and stocky birds exhibit a fearless attitude, especially when it comes to defending their territory against intruders. When threatened, the little owl employs a variety of aggressive tactics, including perching in a prominent position to surveil its surroundings and swooping down with talons outstretched to confront potential adversaries or seize prey.
In addition to its formidable defensive capabilities, the little owl is also a highly skilled hunter, employing a combination of keen eyesight, acute hearing, and stealthy ambush tactics to capture its prey. From small mammals and birds to insects and other invertebrates, the little owl’s varied diet reflects its opportunistic foraging behavior and adaptability to different food sources.
Distribution
Afghanistan
Albania
Algeria
Andorra
Armenia
Austria
Azerbaijan
Belarus
Belgium
Bosnia And Herz.
Bulgaria
Chad
China
Croatia
Cyprus
Czechia
Denmark
Djibouti
Egypt
Eritrea
Ethiopia
Finland
France
Georgia
Germany
Gibraltar
Greece
Hungary
India
Iran
Iraq
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Korea
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Latvia
Lebanon
Libya
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Mali
Malta
Mauritania
Moldova
Mongolia
Montenegro
Morocco
Nepal
Netherlands
New Zealand
Niger
North Korea
North Macedonia
Norway
Oman
Pakistan
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
Russia
Saudi Arabia
Serbia
Slovakia
Slovenia
Somalia
Spain
Sudan
Sweden
Switzerland
Syria
Tajikistan
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
UAE
Ukraine
United Kingdom
Uzbekistan
YemenAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
