Description
The Eurasian Scops Owl is a medium-sized bird of prey characterized by long ear tufts. It has mottled brown and fawn plumage that allows it to blend in among the trees. It feeds mainly on small mammals, such as mice and voles, but also hunts other birds and insects. It is known for its distinctive calls during the breeding season, which runs from March to July. It nests in abandoned nests of other birds, preferring mixed woodlands and open pine forests.
The Situation in Italian-Speaking Switzerland
The Common Owl has always been fairly rare and not very widespread in Ticino. Confirmed nesting sites in the past have been recorded in the Magadino Plain and in the Onsernone Valley. The ideal habitat consists of semi-open landscapes, which are essential for hunting and nesting. The species often uses old nests of corvids and other birds of prey for nesting.
- Asio otus
- Hibou moyen-duc
- Waldohreule
- Uopa cumin
- Long-eared Owl
- 37 cm
- 90–100 cm
