Species profile
About this species
The Long-eared Owl is a medium-sized owl found across Europe, Asia & North America, characterised by its striking long ear tufts which are actually feathers rather than ears. It has a slender body with tawny-buff plumage, streaked with brown & grey, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. Despite its wide range, it is a secretive & nocturnal bird that roosts communally in dense vegetation during the day.
Long-eared Owls favour woodland edges, conifer plantations & dense scrub for roosting & nesting, while hunting over open ground such as moorland, grassland & farmland. They are often found in areas where woodland borders open countryside, providing both cover & foraging habitat.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Long-eared Owl with us in Hungary.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Winter months from November to February offer the best opportunities, as birds gather in communal roosts & are more easily located. Dusk & dawn are ideal times to catch birds hunting or becoming active at roost sites.
Scout communal winter roost sites in dense scrub or conifer plantations, as groups of roosting birds offer daytime photography opportunities. Use a long telephoto lens of at least 400mm & approach slowly to avoid flushing the birds from their roost. Shoot in burst mode at dusk when birds become active, using a wide aperture & high ISO to capture sharp images in low light conditions.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Long-eared Owl
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.
