Discover Mount Etna’s most fascinating nocturnal bird of prey
The long-eared owl is one of the most fascinating nocturnal birds of prey inhabiting the Mount Etna area. However, despite its name, spotting one is no easy feat. If you’re a nature enthusiast or a curious adventurer, read on to uncover everything about this extraordinary forest dweller.
Who is the long-eared owl?
The long-eared owl (Asio otus) is a majestic nocturnal bird of prey, recognizable by its unique features:
- Long feathered ear tufts that resemble horns.
- A striped plumage, with dark tones on the upper body and a tawny hue underneath.
- An impressive wingspan of about 1 meter.
This elegant bird is a silent and precise hunter, perfectly adapted to the woodlands of Mount Etna, as well as rural environments with ample food sources.
A silent predator
The long-eared owl’s diet is diverse, including small rodents, mammals, and occasionally insects. Thanks to its silent flight and exceptional vision, it hunts with remarkable efficiency, playing a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem’s balance.
If you live near forests or agricultural areas around Mount Etna, you might spot traces of its presence, such as pellets (regurgitated remains of its meals) under its perches.
Why is it so hard to spot?
Despite its name, the long-eared owl is relatively rare to see, largely due to its shy and nocturnal nature. Its camouflage makes it almost invisible among tree branches during the day. The best times to spot one are at dusk and dawn when it is most active.
The long-eared owl on Mount Etna
Mount Etna provides an ideal habitat for this species: mixed forests, clearings, and farmlands where it can find food and shelter. However, urban expansion and the shrinking of forested areas increasingly threaten the presence of this magnificent bird.
For this reason, preserving the natural environment and supporting conservation efforts is crucial. Every small action can help protect our nocturnal birds of prey.
Fun facts about the long-eared owl
- Did you know that the long-eared owl doesn’t “hoot” like other owls? Instead, it produces a low, deep sound resembling a “hoo-hoo.”
- Its ability to rotate its head up to 270 degrees makes it one of nature’s most extraordinary observers.
Have you ever seen a long-eared owl?
If you’re near Mount Etna, look up at the treetops at sunset. You might be lucky enough to spot this splendid bird of prey in its natural habitat. Remember to respect the environment and enjoy nature’s spectacle without disturbing wildlife.
The long-eared owl is a jewel of Etna’s wildlife, a symbol of the beauty and fragility of ecosystems. Even though it is challenging to spot, knowing these nocturnal predators still roam freely in the forests of Mount Etna reminds us of the importance of protecting the nature around us.
If you’d like to learn more about nocturnal birds of prey and how to safeguard their habitats, stay tuned for more insights and tips about the animal kingdom!
