Conservation of long-eared owls in UK woodland and young conifer plantations.
Key Facts
Long-eared owls breed in young conifer plantations and woodland edges
They are secretive and nocturnal, making population assessment difficult
UK breeding population is small but wintering numbers increase with continental migrants
Field voles are the primary prey item for long-eared owls
Day roosts in dense conifers and hawthorn thickets are important winter welfare sites
Welfare Considerations
Long-eared owls face welfare risks from prey scarcity and disturbance of day roost and nest sites, requiring habitat management and protection from human disturbance.
What You Can Do
Support forestry management that provides suitable long-eared owl nesting habitat
Report long-eared owl day roost sightings to county bird recording groups
Avoid disturbing known long-eared owl sites during breeding season