Little Owl song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Little Owl, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

The primary song is a distinctive, drawn-out, mournful 'goo-ek' or 'kiew' often repeated, sometimes with a slight tremolo. It can also produce a more rapid 'hoo-hoo-hoo' series.

Calls

Various calls include a sharp 'kew-kew-kew' alarm call, a harsh 'chack-chack' when agitated, and a soft 'hoo' contact call. Juveniles emit a hissing begging call.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season (late winter to early summer), particularly at dusk and dawn, but can be heard throughout the night and occasionally during the day.

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