The diminutive little owl is diurnal and hunts invertebrates, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians and small birds. It's often seen perched on telegraph poles, on branches in old trees in parkland or along hedgerows, or on rocks, from where it quietly scans the ground for prey. Once spotted, the little owl swoops down and catches its victim with either its claws or beak. Little owls breed between March and August, forming monogamous pairs and nesting in hollow trees.
In some parts of Europe, the little owl is undergoing declines due to changing farming practices, road deaths and persecution. Therefore, the population of little owls in Britain could be important in the future. The Wildlife Trusts manage nature reserves across town and country to benefit all kinds of wildlife. Help us to help wildlife by joining, volunteering or getting involved in a campaign.
