Wildlife

Tawny Owl: Woodland Generalist and Urban Colonist

Tawny owls are Britain most common owl but face welfare challenges from habitat loss and rodenticide poisoning.

Key Facts

Tawny owls are Britain most common owl with an estimated 50,000 breeding pairs
They are strictly territorial and young birds must establish new territories or die
Tawny owls are almost entirely nocturnal and nearly blind in daylight
They produce the famous hoot call which is a contact call between pairs
Tawny owls cannot rotate their heads 360 degrees but can turn 270 degrees each way

Welfare Considerations

Tawny owls face welfare threats from rodenticide poisoning that is detectable in over 50 percent of tested birds. Woodland habitat loss reduces territory availability for young birds establishing independence. Urban tawny owls face increased road collision risk when hunting. Severe winters with prolonged snow cover prevent hunting for small mammals causing starvation. Nest site loss from tree removal reduces breeding success.

What You Can Do

Avoid using second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides in or near woodland
Install tawny owl nest boxes in suitable woodland to supplement natural nest sites
Support woodland creation projects that increase tawny owl territory availability
Drive carefully near woodland at night during winter when owls hunt road verges
Submit tawny owl calling records to BTO to contribute to population monitoring