Species · GBIF taxon 2497266
Little Owl
Athene noctuaAlso known as Owl of Athena, Owl of Minerva
These compact, yellow-eyed owls are frequently active during the day, perched conspicuously on fence posts, telegraph poles, or stone walls. They bob their heads energetically up and down when alarmed, a charming behavior that helps them judge distance before launching into a low, undulating flight. Highly adaptable, they readily nest in hollow trees, old buildings, and even rabbit burrows across their vast range.
CrepuscularCavity-nestingVocal
Licensed referenceМаксат79 / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
- diet
- Carnivorous (insects, small mammals, earthworms, and small birds)
- family
- Strigidae
- threats
- Habitat loss, pesticide use reducing prey populations, and vehicle collisions
- life Span
- 3 to 9 years in the wild
LC
Capable of delivering a sharp bite or scratch if cornered; observe from a respectful distance.
- Listen for calls: Scan fence lines and old stone walls when you hear their sharp, barking call.
- Watch the bob: Look for their characteristic head-bobbing behavior, which indicates they have spotted you.
- Check sunny perches: Search for them basking in the morning sun on farm buildings or dead branches.