Tawny Owl

The Tawny Owl is a sturdy, medium-sized woodland bird, usually measuring 37 to 39 cm in length. Its feathers range from rich reddish-brown to grey-brown, with heavy streaks and spots that help it blend in well with tree bark. It has a large, rounded head without ear tufts, and its face is pale grey-brown with clear dark rings around it. The eyes are large and completely dark. This owl is the most common across Britain and much of Europe, but it is not found in Ireland or northern Scotland. It is closely linked to mature broad-leaved and mixed woodlands, but it can also be seen in big parks, churchyards, and well-wooded gardens in towns and cities. The owl’s hooting call is a deep "hoo-hoo-hoo" followed by a fading "hooooo," which is one of the most familiar night-time sounds in Britain. Female owls reply with a sharp "kee-wick" sound. These birds are active only at night and rest during the day close to tree trunks, where they are hard to spot.