Little Owl look-alikes
Athene noctua
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Little Owl. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Tawny Owl
Strix aluco
Key differences
Tawny Owls are significantly larger (37-43 cm), lack yellow eyes, have a more rounded head, and a more cryptic, bark-like plumage pattern. They are strictly nocturnal and typically inhabit denser woodlands.
Eurasian Pygmy Owl
Glaucidium passerinum
Key differences
Eurasian Pygmy Owls are much smaller (16-18 cm), have a more compact body, and lack the prominent 'eyebrows' of the Little Owl. They have a more rapid, direct flight and often hunt during the day in coniferous forests.
Short-eared Owl
Asio flammeus
Key differences
Short-eared Owls are larger (34-43 cm), have long wings, a buoyant, moth-like flight, and typically inhabit open grasslands and marshes. They have small ear tufts (often not visible) and a streaked breast, but lack the Little Owl's flat head and bright yellow eyes with prominent white brows.
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