Galapagos Land Birds Galapagos Short Eared Owls The Short Eared
Owl (Asio flammeus) is a species owl belonging to genus Asio.
They are known as the 'eared owls', as they have tufts of
feathers resembling ears like mammals. Their ear tufts are
sometimes visible and sometime not. These owls usually display
their tufts when in a defensive pose. The Short Eared Owl is
found in open country and grasslands. The Short Eared Owl is a
medium sized owl averaging 34 – 43 centimetres (13 to 17 inches)
in length and weighing 206 – 475 grams (11 to 13 ounces). It has
large eyes, big heads, short necks and broad wings. Its beak is
short, strong, hooked and black. Its plumage is mottled tawny to
brown with a barred tail and wings. The upper breast is
significantly streaked. Short Eared Owl wingspans range from 85
to 103 centimetres (38 to 44 inches). Females are slightly
larger than males. The yellow-orange eyes are exaggerated by
black rings encircling each eye and large, whitish disks of
plumage surrounding the eyes like a