The short-eared owl is a widespread grassland species in the family Strigidae. Owls belonging to genus Asio are known as the eared owls, as they have tufts of feathers resembling mammalian ears. These "ear" tufts may or may not be visible. The short-eared owl will display its tufts when in a defensive pose, although its very short tufts are usually not visible. The short-eared owl is found in open country and grasslands.
Region
Holarctic and worldwide open grasslands
Typical Environment
Widely distributed across North America, Europe, Asia, parts of North Africa, and many oceanic islands, favoring open habitats. It occupies prairies, marshes, tundra, meadows, heaths, coastal dunes, and agricultural fields. It is tolerant of human-altered landscapes if prey and cover persist. In winter it may concentrate in grasslands and coastal flats where small mammals are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 4000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The short-eared owl is an open-country owl that often hunts in daylight, especially at dawn and dusk, giving it a higher chance of being seen than many owls. It nests on the ground, where its cryptic plumage helps it blend into grasses. Populations can fluctuate widely with vole cycles, and the species may wander nomadically in search of prey-rich areas.
In flight
Short Eared Owl in its habitat. Notice how it chooses short shady trees to roost under, in a grassland/ desert habitat.
Egg, Collection Museum Wiesbaden
Juvenile short-eared owl in Germany
Lesser black-backed gull chasing a short-eared owl
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
buoyant, moth-like with deep wingbeats and gliding
Social Behavior
Typically nests on the ground in a shallow scrape lined with vegetation. In prey-rich winters, loose roosting groups may form, but breeding territories are defended. Courtship includes skydancing with wing-claps by the male.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
The male’s display call is a series of low hoots, often paired with audible wing-claps during flight. Both sexes give barks, squeals, and raspy calls near the nest.
