No.10 Little Owl


(Note: Click on photos to enlarge the images)


Despite its relatively small size (only 8-10 inches high) the Little Owl is probably the most commonly seen member of the Owl family. This is partly because it commonly sits in very exposed locations and partly because it is happy to perch out in the open throughout daylight hours.The Little Owl was apparently introduced to Britain in the 19th Century (in the year 1842) and has rapidly become one of the commonest species of owl in the UK and Europe.



Little Owl in typical daytime location


Several people have noticed and remarked on seeing a Little Owl at various locations around Secret valley Golf Course over the past few months. It seems to be most frequently seen on the low wall that runs alongside the main access road to the clubhouse, particularly adjacent to the 11th, 12th and 17th holes. It is also quite often seen in the trees between the 2nd tee and 15th hole but recent work on restoration of the river channel has probably disturbed it from this location. The olive trees on the right of the path climbing up to the 7th tee is also a good spot to see one.



Little Owl - trying to merge with background?


The Little Owl  hunts mainly around dusk and feeds mainly on small rodents and birds as well as large insects, reptiles and amphibians. It nests in holes in stone walls and buildings. Its call is a very distinctive two-toned sort of "kee-ew" sound, easily recognised once learned. The adult bird has very distinct white "eyebrows" that give it a slightly stern look. Interestingly the back of the bird's head has a similar pattern of white feathers, which can fool you into thinking that the bird is facing you when it isn't (presumably a good defence against smaller mobbing birds).




Little Owl perching distinctively at Anarita snail farm!



All pictures and text by Trevor Fordham

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