The Little Owl (Athene noctua) is a small owl species belonging to the family Strigidae. This species, widely found in Europe, Asia, and North Africa, is usually observed in open areas, agricultural lands, and rocky regions. Notable for its short stature, round head, and yellow eyes, the Little Owl—despite being a nocturnal species—can also be active during the daytime. It derives its name from the high-pitched and distinct calls it produces throughout the night. This species, commonly seen in Turkey, also holds an important place in cultural and folkloric contexts.
Characteristics
The Little Owl is a small-sized owl species with a round head and relatively long legs. Its feathers are generally in shades of grey and brown, and they may vary in color depending on the climate and geographical features of its habitat. While in the Central Anatolia and Southeastern Anatolia regions, Little Owls tend to exhibit lighter tones, individuals living in forested and wooded areas may be darker in color. Its crown, nape, and wings are adorned with distinct white spots. The yellow eyes, along with the white eyebrow lines and the area around the eyes, are particularly striking. The average body length of the Little Owl is between 21 and 27 cm, with a wingspan varying between 50 and 57 cm, and it weighs between 150 and 200 grams. Although it is generally active during the day as well, it prefers to hunt during twilight and nighttime.
Little Owl (Photo: Luiz Lapa, flickr.com)
Distribution and Habitat
The Little Owl has a wide distribution across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. In a geographic range extending from Spain to China, this species, which is capable of adapting to various ecosystems, generally prefers temperate climate regions. It selects open lands, rural areas, stony and rocky regions, fields, and sparsely wooded areas as its habitat.
Distribution Map (Source: The IUCN Red List)
Habitat in Turkiye
In Turkiye, the Little Owl is commonly seen. It is frequently observed, particularly in the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Central Anatolia regions. Agricultural lands, villages, meadows, and rocky areas are the primary habitats in Turkiye. It typically nests in areas near human settlements and may take refuge in crevices in stone walls, tree hollows, or old buildings.
Behavior and Ecology
It is generally observed either alone or with its mate. During the day, it rests in tree hollows, rocky crevices, or among building ruins. While hunting, it perches silently before suddenly striking to capture its prey. The Little Owl is one of the few owl species that can adapt to human settlements.
Little Owl Living in a Tree Hollow (Photo: Luiz Lapa, flickr.com)
Reproduction
Little Owls are monogamous and form long-term pair bonds. Their breeding season begins in the spring. They typically lay their eggs in tree cavities, rocky crevices, or abandoned structures. The female usually lays an average of 3–5 eggs, and the incubation period is approximately 28 days. The young begin to leave the nest about 4–5 weeks after hatching.
Baby Little Owl (Photo: johnNaturePhotos, pixabay.com)
Feeding
The most important food source for the Little Owl is field mice. In addition, it feeds on small mammals, insects, and reptiles. By hunting throughout the night, it plays a significant role in controlling rodent populations in rural areas.
Little Owl Feeding on a Grasshopper (Photo: Luiz Lapa, flickr.com)
Sound
The Little Owl is known for its high-pitched and sharp calls. It mostly produces sounds similar to “hu-hu-hu,” and these calls can be heard during twilight or at night. Additionally, in moments of danger, it emits rapid and harsh sounds to warn off predators and rivals.
Sound of the Little Owl (Source: xeno-canto.org)
Conservation Status
The Little Owl is listed as Least Concern (LC) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, factors such as the expansion of agricultural lands, habitat loss, and the use of agricultural chemicals can threaten local populations.
Cultural Importance
In mythology and folk beliefs, the Little Owl has been associated with wisdom and prophecy. In ancient Greece, it was identified with Athena and regarded as a symbol of wisdom. In Turkish folk beliefs, it is sometimes linked to ill omens; however, it has also been seen as a protector of agricultural lands.
