The short-eared owl is a bird species found in various parts of the world, including North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is named for its distinctive ear tufts, which are actually just feathers that can be raised or lowered depending on the bird’s mood.
The short-eared owl is a medium-sized owl with mottled brown plumage and yellow eyes. It is typically found in open grasslands, marshes, and tundra habitats, where it feeds on small mammals such as voles, mice, and shrews, as well as birds and insects.
The short-eared owl is a migratory bird species, and populations in the Northern Hemisphere typically migrate south to warmer regions in the winter. Despite being relatively widespread, habitat loss and degradation due to agricultural and urban development are potential threats to the short-eared owl in some areas.
Conservation efforts, such as protecting grassland habitats and regulating hunting and harvesting, are important for the long-term survival of this species. The short-eared owl is also sometimes used for falconry, and strict regulations are in place to ensure that this practice is sustainable and not harmful to wild populations.