Facts for Kids

The Long-eared Owl 🦉 is a fascinating bird known for its long ear tufts! These tufts make them look like they have "horns," which is why they are sometimes called "horned owls." They are medium-sized, measuring about 13-15 inches (33-38 cm) long. Their beautiful feathers are brown, orange, and white, helping them blend into trees and bushes. You can find Long-eared Owls in places all over North America, Europe, and Asia. They are mostly active at night, which is when they hunt for food. What a cool and mysterious bird!

Here are some fun facts about Long-eared Owls! 🎉

Did you know they can turn their heads almost all the way around? They can rotate their heads up to 270 degrees! This helps them see in many directions without moving their bodies. Long-eared Owls also have a unique way of hunting called "perch hunting," where they sit quietly on a branch and look for prey. They are very quiet flyers, making it easier to sneak up on their food. Finally, a group of owls is called a “parliament” – how fancy is that?

There are other owls that kind of look like the Long-eared Owl! 🦉

The Great Horned Owl has impressive tufts as well, but it is larger and has a more robust body. The Eastern Screech Owl is smaller, and its colors vary but has no ear tufts like the Long-eared Owl. The Barn Owl, also called the "Barny," has a heart-shaped face and is very good at flying silently. Each owl species has unique features and behaviors, making them all special in their own way!

Long-eared Owls are generally not endangered, but they still face threats! 🌍

Habitat loss due to deforestation and human activities can make it hard for them to find trees to live in. Pesticides used by farmers can reduce their prey, making it difficult for them to find food. These owls are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States, which means it is illegal to harm them. It’s important for everyone to help protect their homes and the environment to keep these beautiful owls safe!

Long-eared Owls like to make their homes (or nests) in trees, often using old nests built by other birds. 🥚

They usually lay about 3-7 eggs in a nest lined with soft materials. The female bird usually sits on the eggs to keep them warm, while the male brings her food. After about 26-30 days, the eggs hatch, and tiny owlets are born! The baby owls learn to fly and hunt after several weeks, and soon they are ready to explore the world by themselves. Isn’t it fun to see how they grow?

Owls, including the Long-eared Owl, have been featured in stories and myths for thousands of years! 📚

In ancient Greece, owls were considered symbols of wisdom and were associated with the goddess Athena. Many Native American tribes also respect owls and believe they can bring messages or warning signs. These beautiful birds inspire art, literature, and even cartoons! Owls are often portrayed as wise characters, reminding us how important they are in different cultures. Isn’t it cool how they connect with so many people?

Long-eared Owls are skilled at living near humans, but they prefer to keep their distance! 🏙

️ People sometimes encounter them in parks or gardens, but these owls usually avoid busy places. Birdwatchers love to spot them due to their unique appearance and behaviors. Some cultures believe owls are symbols of wisdom and protection! However, it is important to respect their space and not disturb them or their nests. Observing them from afar can be an exciting adventure!

Long-eared Owls like to live in forests, parks, and even grassy areas near trees! 🌳

They are found all over North America, parts of Europe, and Asia. In North America, you can spot them from the chilly forests of Canada down to the warm areas of Mexico. They prefer areas with plenty of trees where they can hide and hunt. During the winter months, some of them move to warmer climates. Isn’t it amazing how they travel to find the perfect place to live?

Long-eared Owls have some very special features! 🦉

Their fluffy, long ear tufts can stand straight up or lay down, making them look even more interesting. They have bright yellow eyes that help them see in the dark. Their bodies are covered in soft feathers that can be brown with streaks of reddish-orange. This unique coloring helps them camouflage in their natural habitats, like forests and woodlands. They have strong wings and can fly silently, which is super helpful when hunting for prey at night. Aren't they cool?

The Long-eared Owl is a master hunter! They mainly eat small animals like mice, voles, and even small birds. 🐭🦜 At night, they fly silently through the trees, using their excellent vision to spot their prey. Once they see a delicious snack, they swoop down quickly to catch it with their powerful talons. They have great hearing too, which helps them find food even when it’s hidden in the grass or under leaves. Being a good hunter helps them survive in the wild!

Long-eared Owls are known for their unique sounds! Hoo-hoo! 🦉

At night, they make a special deep hooting sound to talk to each other, especially during breeding season. They also make screeching and barking noises! These sounds help them find mates and warn other owls to stay away from their territory. They are very good at being quiet during the day, blending in with their surroundings until nightfall. They also use their body language, like fluttering their wings, to communicate with one another.