Little Owl

Athene noctua

Genus · Little Owls and Allies Family · Typical Owls
Observation tips Difficulty: MODERATE
Best time
🕒 Any
Activity
🌅 Crepuscular
Best months
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Observation habitat
FarmlandOrchardUrban

Look for them perched on fence posts or old barn roofs before sunset. Their small, rounded silhouette is very distinct.

Little Owl
Stats
Wingspan54–58 cm
Weight100–200 g
Length21–23 cm
Lifespan wild3–10 yrs
Size
XS
S
M
L
XL
Nesting
Nest typeCavity
Clutch size3–5 eggs
Incubation28–29 days
Breeding months
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Regional Status (Europe)
LC
Least Concern (Europe)
IUCN Red List
MigrationResident
Social BehaviourSolitary

Diet: Carnivore

🐸Amphibians
🦅Birds
🦗Insects
🐭Mammals
🦎Reptiles
🪱Worms

Habitat

🚜 Farmland🌿 Grassland🍎 Orchard🏙️ Urban
✦ Fun Fact

In Greek mythology, the Little Owl was the companion of Athena, the goddess of wisdom. This is why its scientific name is *Athene noctua*.

About

A small, compact owl with a flat-topped head and yellow eyes. Prominent white 'eyebrows' give it a stern expression. It lives in open agricultural landscapes, old orchards, parks and gardens. Unlike many owls, the Little Owl is frequently active during the day. It is often seen basking in the sun or hunting in the late afternoon.

Behaviour

Little Owls are territorial and often return to the same perch daily. When agitated, they perform a characteristic 'bobbing' motion. Their diet includes large insects, earthworms, and small mammals. They have many calls, including a repetitive 'kiew-kiew'. They nest in tree cavities, old buildings, or rabbit burrows.
See Little Owl in the app.
Full encyclopedia, offline diary, AI identification — always with you.
Download on Google Play