Strix aluco
The Tawny Owl is a medium-sized owl with a robust build. Its plumage is mottled brown and grey, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. The bird has a large, rounded head with dark eyes and no ear tufts. The facial disc is pale, almost off white.
Females are generally larger and heavier than males, but plumage is similar between the sexes. Juveniles resemble adults but have a more fluffy appearance and may show slightly paler markings.
Two colour morphs exist, grey or brown.
Length
37cm to 43cm
Wingspan
94cm to 104cm
Weight
330g to 590g
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Brown Grey
Secondary Colour
White Black
Beak Colour
Grey Yellow
Leg Colour
Grey
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Tawny Owls inhabit a wide range of wooded habitats, including deciduous and mixed forests, parks, and large gardens. They are found across much of Europe and parts of Asia, extending from the UK to western Siberia and Iran.
In the UK, Tawny Owls are widespread and common, absent only from Ireland and some Scottish islands. They are non-migratory, maintaining their territories year-round.
Up to 2,350 meters
Temperate, Mediterranean
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Tawny Owl. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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