The little owl is the smallest owl in Flanders. It stands
out because of its stocky stature, bright eyes and white eyebrow stripes.
How can you recognize the little owl?
Small and set, with a body length of 21 to 23 centimeters,
so the size of a starling.
Bright yellow eyes
Round head
Brown-white speckled plumage
Day active owl. Flies low with undulating flight to lookout.
What does the little owl eat?
Due to its small stature, the little owl catches few
impressive prey, including insects, amphibians and earthworms. Nevertheless,
exceptionally there are also mice or even rats on its menu.
Where does the little owl live?
The owl is found all over Europe, North Africa and large
parts of Asia. It is a resident bird: it breeds and hibernates in the same
region.
How does the owl reproduce?
The little owl prefers to build its nest in cavities of
fruit trees, pollard willows and old sheds. They also use nest boxes specially
designed for the owl. The mother lays two to six round, white eggs.
How do you get to see the owl?
The little owl feels best in the countryside. You'll often
find it during the day while enjoying the sun on poles or pollard willows.
However, due to the strong urbanisation and agrarian reforms of recent years,
the habitat of the Tawny Owl is in increasing danger.
Facts about the little owl
During the winter months you can hear the little owl calling
from afar
The little owl adorned the last banknote of the Dutch
guilder until 2002.
What can you do for the little owl?
Take good care of pollard willows. The little owl likes to
nest in the hollows of the pollard willow, but if the tree is not pruned
regularly, the branches will break off and start to rot.