Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

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Little Owl of Athena

Scientific name: Athene noctua


Little Owl of Athena

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: STRIGIDAE

Group: Birds

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 30 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.03-31.03

Gestation: 28 à 29 jours

Births: 29.04-28.05


Habitat:
Forests and woodlands

Description:
The Little Owl is a small, distinctive owl, easily recognizable by its large yellow eyes and its generally gray-brown plumage marked with white spots. It has a stocky body and a round head, without the ear tufts typical of other owls. The Little Owl is often found in open areas such as fields, orchards, and agricultural sites, where it frequently perches on stones, posts, or low trees. This nocturnal predator feeds mainly on small mammals, insects, and reptiles, which it hunts primarily at night. Although its population remains relatively stable in many parts of Europe, the Little Owl is threatened by habitat loss and changes in agricultural practices. The species benefits from some protections and is often associated with conservation efforts aimed at preserving its open habitats.

Recommended lens:
>=300 mm

Photography tips:

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