Owls
Asio flammeus
The Short-eared Owl is a medium-sized owl with a widespread global distribution, often seen flying low over open country. Unlike many owls, it is frequently active during daylight hours, particularly at dawn and dusk. Its buoyant, moth-like flight makes it a distinctive sight in its preferred habitats.
Typical adult measurements.
Individuals and populations vary.
01 / The telltale details
Start with shape and behavior. Then look for the smaller details.
Pale facial disk with striking yellow eyes outlined in black, giving a masked appearance.
Very short ear tufts are often inconspicuous and not a reliable identification feature.
In flight, look for white underwings contrasting with dark wingtips and a distinctive dark comma-shaped mark at the wrist.
Overall tawny or buffy with dark brown streaking on the breast and upperparts. Females tend to be slightly larger and darker.
02 / A place in the world
This species favors open, treeless areas such as grasslands, prairies, marshes, and tundra. It can also be found in agricultural fields, coastal dunes, and even reclaimed strip-mine areas.
One of the most widely distributed owls globally, found across North and South America, Eurasia, and many oceanic islands, including Hawaii. In North America, it breeds in northern latitudes and winters south to Mexico and the Gulf Coast.
Northern populations are strongly migratory, while those in mid-latitudes may be year-round residents. Movements are often nomadic, influenced by the availability of prey.
03 / Listen a little closer
Generally not very vocal, but gives a raspy, repeated bark, often described as "wak-wak-wak." Courtship calls include a series of hoots.
04 / The life behind the feathers
Primarily consumes small mammals, especially voles (Microtus species). It will also prey on other small mammals like shrews, mice, and lemmings, and occasionally small birds or insects.
Hunts by flying low over open ground, often into the wind, with buoyant, moth-like wingbeats. It may hover briefly before dropping onto unsuspecting prey.
Nests are typically a shallow scrape on the ground, often lined with grass and feathers, usually in dry, open areas like grasslands or tundra. The female builds the nest and lays 3-11 eggs.
Often active during the day, particularly at dawn and dusk, unlike many owl species. They may form communal roosts during winter where prey is abundant. Males perform aerial courtship displays with wing-clapping.
One more reason to pay attention
The Short-eared Owl is one of the world's most widely distributed owl species.
The Hawaiian subspecies, known as Pueo, is considered a protector in Hawaiian mythology.
Female Short-eared Owls may defecate on their eggs if flushed from the nest, possibly to deter predators with the smell.
05 / An eye for the difference
AI-assisted species research. Prepared September 2026. Details can vary across regions and populations.
