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Long-Eared Owl: Elusive Woodland Predator

The long-eared owl is one of Britain's most secretive owls. This guide explores its welfare needs, habitat requirements, and conservation challenges.

Key Facts

Long-eared owls are strictly nocturnal and rarely seen despite being widespread
They favour conifer plantations and woodland edges for nesting
Ears are asymmetrically placed for precise sound location of prey
Communal winter roosts in dense scrub can number dozens of birds
Small mammal prey availability drives population fluctuations
Mortality from road traffic and poisoned rodenticide prey are welfare concerns

Welfare Considerations and Management

Long-eared owl welfare challenges include secondary poisoning from rodenticide-killed prey (particularly second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides), road traffic mortality, nest disturbance, and habitat loss through woodland management changes. Winter roost sites in dense hawthorn and blackthorn scrub provide crucial thermal shelter. Conservation focuses on maintaining woodland edge habitats, reducing rodenticide use, and protecting known roost and nest sites from disturbance.

What You Can Do

Avoid second-generation rodenticide use which accumulates in owl prey species
Retain dense scrub (hawthorn, blackthorn) providing winter roost habitat
Drive carefully in rural lanes at night when owls are most active
Report long-eared owl roost sites to local wildlife organisations for monitoring