What does the Little Owl eat?

The Little Owl's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Carnivore (primarily insectivorous and rodentivorous)

How it forages

Primarily hunts from a perch or by hovering. Diet consists mainly of large insects (beetles, grasshoppers, crickets), earthworms, and small mammals (voles, mice). Also takes small birds, amphibians, and reptiles. Often caches food.

When it feeds

Crepuscular and nocturnal, but frequently active and hunts during the day, particularly in overcast weather or when feeding young. Often seen perched conspicuously during daylight hours.

Explore the Little Owl