The little owl, introduced to Britain in the 19th century, has declined markedly since the 1990s linked to loss of rough grassland and earthworm and beetle prey availability.
Little owls that cannot find adequate invertebrate prey due to pesticide use and agricultural intensification face nutritional stress, particularly during cold wet weather when prey becomes inaccessible. Chicks in years with poor prey availability may not receive adequate food, causing starvation. Loss of old trees, stone walls, and traditional farm buildings removes nest sites, forcing owls into unsuitable locations. Road mortality is a significant welfare cause for low-flying birds hunting along road margins. Conservation measures including provision of nest boxes, retention of rough grassland margins, and organic farming certification that increases invertebrate prey all benefit little owl welfare.