Tawny owl or brown owl (Strix aluco) flying in woodland
The tawny owl or brown owl (Strix aluco) is a stocky, medium-sized owl commonly found in woodlands across much of Europe. Its underparts are pale with dark streaks, and the upperparts are either brown or grey. The nest is typically in a tree hole where it can protect its eggs and young against potential predators. This owl is non-migratory and highly territorial. Many young birds starve if they cannot find a vacant territory once parental care ceases. This nocturnal bird of prey hunts mainly rodents, usually by dropping from a perch to seize its prey, which it swallows whole; in more urban areas its diet includes a higher proportion of birds. Vision and hearing adaptations and silent flight aid its night hunting. The tawny owl is 37–46 cm (15–18 in) in length, with an 81–105 cm (32–41 in) wingspan. The tawny owl flies with long glides on rounded wings, less undulating and with fewer wingbeats than other Eurasian owls, and typically at a greater height.
Size: 4000px × 3201px
Location: Sarson Lane, Weyhill, Andover, Hampshire, SP11 8DY, UK
Photo credit: © Niall Ferguson / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: bird, brown, flying, nocturnal, owl, prey, tawny, uk
