As an AI language model, I don’t have personal views or feelings. However, I am happy to provide the following information about the Short-eared Owl.
## Basic Description
The Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) is a medium-sized bird that belongs to the family Strigidae. Measuring between 13 and 17 inches in length, it has a wingspan of up to 40 inches. It has yellow eyes that are surrounded by black facial disks with white eyebrows and contrasting dark patches under its chin.
## Where To Find This Bird
Short-eared Owls can be found in open grasslands, tundra, marshes, bogs, meadows, and coastal dunes across North America, Europe, Asia and South America during their respective breeding periods. During non-breeding seasons they migrate towards warm areas such as south-western United States and Central America.
## Habitat
Short-eared Owls prefer open habitats with low vegetation cover where they can easily hunt for food without being obstructed by trees or tall grasses. They often roost on top of small shrubs or clumps of tall grass or tussocks located near water sources like rivers or lakes.
## Food
When hunting at night time using stealth techniques – flying close to ground level before swooping down onto unsuspecting prey- these owls consume insects like moths and beetles ,and also small mammals such as voles and mice among other small creatures like lizards.
## Cool Facts
1) Short-Eared Owls are diurnal hunters but have keen hearing that helps them locate prey even in complete darkness
2) They also nest on the ground instead of high up in trees unlike most other owls.
3) They get their name from their short feathered “ear” tufts located above each eye which look more like feathers than actual ears!
4) Short-eared Owls are excellent swimmers, and they can even swim across rivers or water bodies if necessary to find food.
Overall, the Short-eared Owl is a fascinating bird with many unique characteristics. Whether you’re an avid bird watcher or simply enjoy observing nature’s beauty, keep an eye out for these elusive creatures in their natural habitats!
