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  • Writer's pictureSim Elliott

A Long-Eared Owl

On one of recent birding trips I saw a Long-Eared Owl, Asio otus. I have not included its location, as it is a sensitive sighting. It is a very rare nesting species in the south east; although it's UK conservation status is Green; there are only 1,800-6,000 breeding pairs (RSPB estimate) in the UK and Long-Eared Owls are rarely seen in the day in the UK.

At first I thought, from a distance, it was a Kestrel, but when I got closer it was clearly an owl. I didn't know which species if owl it was, so I posted a picture of it in the Facebook group of an Ornithological Society I belong to. I found out it was a Long-eared Owl .


Lots of information in Long-eared Owls can be discovered here: Long-eared Owl (Asio otus) - Information, Pictures, Sounds - The Owl Pages


Wise and regal, with an imposing stare and elusive nature. Our most nocturnal owl, with a penchant for recycling other bird’s old nests. It lives in dense woodland and is a skilful hunter. Long-Eared Owl (Asio otus) - British Birds - Woodland Trust


and some more Canada Geese and Goslings


and the final birds I saw were this Male Stonechat and a Stonechat fledgling


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