The Tawny Owl, scientifically named Strix aluco, is one of the most well-known owls in Europe. It gets its name from its beautiful tawny (reddish-brown) feathers. The bird belongs to the Strigidae family, which includes many other owl species. This species has been studied for centuries, but its first detailed observations were noted by naturalists in Europe during the 18th century. Other names for this owl include Brown Owl or Wood Owl, due to its habitat preferences.
| POPULATION SIZE | 740 million |
| LIFE SPAN | 24 years |
| TOP SPEED | 40 km/h |
| WEIGHT | 1.8 to 2.3 kg |
| LENGTH | 50 to 60 cm |
Identification:
Juvenile Tawny Owl:
Young Tawny Owls have fluffy, greyish down feathers and large, dark eyes. They look very cute and are often seen near their nests, practicing flying skills.
Adult Male Tawny Owl:
Fully grown males have a compact body, round face, and tawny-colored feathers with streaks. They’re slightly smaller than females but have the same feather patterns.
Adult Female Tawny Owl:
Females are larger and heavier than males, with similar plumage and round faces.
Size of Tawny Owl:
- Length: Tawny Owls measure about 14–16 inches (35–40 cm) from head to tail.
- Wingspan: Their wingspan is 33–40 inches (85–100 cm), making them powerful flyers.
- Weight: They weigh around 14–22 ounces (400–630 grams), with females typically heavier than males.
Call of Tawny Owl:
Habitat:
Tawny Owls are mostly found in Europe and parts of Asia. They prefer woodlands, parks, and even gardens with large trees. While they are common in Europe, they are not native to the Americas.
Died/Food:
Tawny Owls are nocturnal hunters, feeding on small mammals like mice and voles. They also eat birds, insects, frogs, and worms. Their ability to adapt their diet helps them survive in various environments.
Nesting:
Tawny Owls usually nest in tree cavities, old nests of other birds, or even in buildings and barns. They lay 2–5 white eggs, and both parents take care of the chicks. The chicks leave the nest after 5–6 weeks but stay close to their parents for several months.
Behaviour:
Tawny Owls are territorial and can be quite defensive if their nest is disturbed. They are shy around humans but may live near people in wooded areas. If treated with respect, they pose no harm. Their haunting hoots are one of the most famous owl calls, often heard at night.
Lifespan Of Tawny Owl:
In the wild, Tawny Owls live for about 4–7 years on average. In captivity, with proper care, they can live up to 20 years or more.
Tawny Owl Facts:
- Famous Call: The Tawny Owl is famous for its “twit-twoo” call, which is actually a duet between a male and a female owl.
- Record Holder for Longevity: The oldest known wild Tawny Owl lived to be 27 years old, an impressive feat for a bird in the wild.
- Historical Symbolism: In ancient European folklore, Tawny Owls were considered omens of mystery, wisdom, or even bad luck, depending on the culture.
- First Owl Studied in Europe: Tawny Owls were one of the first owl species documented in detail by early European naturalists.
- Record Clutch Sizes: In favorable conditions, a Tawny Owl can lay up to 5 eggs in a single clutch, though 2–3 is more common.
- Survivors in Harsh Conditions: These owls are known to survive in extreme cold by slowing their metabolism and conserving energy.
- Record Breaker in Speed: While not the fastest, Tawny Owls can reach impressive speeds of up to 40 mph when diving for prey.
- Grounded Chicks: It’s common for young Tawny Owls to be found on the ground while learning to fly. They aren’t abandoned—parents are usually nearby, watching over them.
FAQ’s about Tawny Owls:
Are Tawny owls rare?
Tawny Owls are not considered rare. They are one of the most common owl species in Europe, especially in woodlands. However, their populations can decline in areas where forests are being cut down.
What are the predators of a Tawny owl?
Predators of Tawny Owls include larger birds of prey like goshawks and eagles. Foxes and martens might also threaten young owlets if they’re left alone in the nest or on the ground.
Where do you find Tawny owls? (Where do they live?)
Tawny Owls are native to Europe and parts of Asia. They live in forests, woodlands, parks, and even gardens with tall trees. They prefer areas where they can perch during the day and hunt at night.
Do Tawny owls migrate?
No, Tawny Owls are not migratory birds. They stay in the same area year-round and are highly territorial, often defending their home territory aggressively.
Why are Tawny owls considered exotic pets?
Tawny Owls are considered exotic pets because they are wild birds with unique habits, striking appearances, and symbolic connections in folklore. However, they require special care, and keeping them as pets is restricted in many places.
What do Tawny owls like to eat?
Tawny Owls love eating small mammals like mice, voles, and shrews. They also eat birds, insects, and sometimes amphibians like frogs.
Do Tawny owls hunt in packs?
No, Tawny Owls are solitary hunters. They rely on their incredible hearing and silent flight to catch prey alone, especially at night.
Are Tawny owls social birds?
Tawny Owls are not very social. They usually prefer to live alone or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. However, they can sometimes tolerate other owls nearby.
How long do Little owls live?
In the wild, Tawny Owls can live up to 10–15 years, but some have been known to live up to 27 years. Captive owls may live even longer with proper care.
What can I feed my pet Tawny owl at home?
If allowed to keep one, Tawny Owls need a diet similar to what they eat in the wild, like mice, chicks, or other small mammals. Always consult an expert before feeding any wild bird.
How much weight can a Tawny owl carry in flight?
Tawny Owls can carry prey that weighs about half their body weight, typically around 1 to 2 pounds.
What would happen if Tawny owls went extinct?
If Tawny Owls went extinct, there would be an increase in rodent populations, disrupting the balance of ecosystems. They play a critical role as predators in controlling pests.
Can Tawny owls swim?
Tawny Owls are not swimmers. They can wade through shallow water if necessary but avoid swimming as it is not natural for them.
Are there different types of Tawny owls?
Yes, there are slight variations of Tawny Owls in different regions, mainly differing in size and color. However, they are generally classified as one species, Strix aluco.
What do Tawny owls dislike?
Tawny Owls dislike loud noises, bright lights, and human disturbances near their nesting sites. They are also sensitive to habitat destruction.
Can we pet Tawny owls?
It’s generally not recommended or legal to pet Tawny Owls. In most countries, like the USA and parts of Europe, they are protected under wildlife laws, and keeping them as pets requires special permits. Even in captivity, they need expert care and plenty of space to thrive.
