Short-eared Owl

33-43 cm (13-17") Fairly common. Open country, plains, dunes, and marshes; nests on ground.

Medium-sized owl with small inconspicuous ear tufts. Dark areas around yellow eyes like sunglasses. Boldly streaked breast.

Most active at dusk and dawn.

In flight; distinctive bounding, butterfly-like flight with a quick upstroke. Buffy upperwing patch; black patch at bend on underwings. Wings held upward like a harrier's.

Song: bark "kee-yow wow", usually silent.

Videos

Distribution Maps

Short-eared Owl distribution map

Short-eared Owl winter distribution map