Tawny Owl look-alikes
Strix aluco
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Tawny Owl. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Long-eared Owl
Asio otus
Key differences
Long-eared Owls have prominent ear tufts (though not always visible), orange eyes, and a more slender build. Their facial disc is more elongated, and their plumage is more finely mottled with vertical streaking. They are also typically smaller.
Short-eared Owl
Asio flammeus
Key differences
Short-eared Owls have very short ear tufts (often not visible), yellow eyes, and a more open country habitat preference. They are often active during the day (crepuscular) and have a distinctive buoyant, moth-like flight. Their plumage is paler and more streaked.
Little Owl
Athene noctua
Key differences
Little Owls are much smaller, have bright yellow eyes, a flattened head, and a more upright posture. They are often seen perching conspicuously during the day and have a distinctive undulating flight. Their plumage is more spotted than streaked.
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