Long-eared Owl
Asio otus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Strigiformes · Strigidae
About
The long-eared owl, also known as the northern long-eared owl or, more informally, as the lesser horned owl or cat owl, is a medium-sized species of owl with an extensive breeding range. The genus name, Asio, is Latin for "horned owl", and the specific epithet, otus, is derived from Greek and refers to a small eared owl. The species breeds in many areas through Europe and the Palearctic, as well as in North America. This species is a part of the larger grouping of owls known as typical owls, of the family Strigidae, which contains most extant species of owl.
Fun Fact
Long-eared owls roost communally in winter, with up to 100 individuals sharing a single dense conifer — their elongated ear tufts are purely for camouflage and have no role in hearing.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Dense woodlands and thickets
Diet
Carnivore
Lifespan
10-12 years
Threats
- Deforestation
- Habitat Fragmentation