
Description
The little owl is a small nocturnal bird of prey characterized by a stocky build and a relatively large head with piercing yellow eyes. Its plumage is brown with white spots. It feeds mainly on insects, small mammals, and birds. It emits a variety of vocalizations, including a characteristic call resembling a “kiuu.” It inhabits expansive rural areas with open landscapes featuring fields and isolated trees. It nests in natural or artificial cavities, and the nesting season begins in the spring. Unlike many other nocturnal birds of prey, it can sometimes be seen during the day.
The Situation in Italian-Speaking Switzerland
Currently, the little owl nests in the Magadino Plain and in the Mendrisiotto region. Ficedula has been working to conserve the species in Ticino since the 1980s. You can find more information about the Little Owl Project on this page.
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