Wildlife

Little Owl: Introduced Species Now in Decline

Little owls were introduced from continental Europe in the 19th century and are now declining with farmland intensification.

Key Facts

Little owls were introduced to Britain from the Netherlands in the 1870s and 1890s
UK population is estimated at around 5,700 pairs but declining
They feed on earthworms, beetles, and small mammals using rough permanent grassland
Little owls nest in holes in trees, stone walls, and embankments
They are partially diurnal often hunting in daylight and at dusk

Welfare Considerations

Little owls face welfare challenges from loss of rough permanent grassland that reduces their invertebrate prey. Removal of old trees and stone walls eliminates nest sites. Cold winters reduce earthworm availability causing food stress. Secondary rodenticide poisoning from eating contaminated mice and voles causes internal bleeding. Cats and other predators take a toll on ground-feeding birds.

What You Can Do

Retain rough permanent grassland on farms and estates
Maintain old trees and stone walls as nest site provision
Install little owl nest boxes in suitable habitat areas
Support agri-environment payments that fund permanent grassland retention
Participate in BTO little owl surveys to help track population changes