Eurasian Scops-owl

This is a tiny nocturnal raptor, of approximately 20 cm, no larger than a blackbird and very light: less than 100 grams.

Its striated beige-brown plumage is excellent camouflage: when resting along a tree trunk, it is virtually invisible. Its facial disc is divided in half down to its beak, emphasizing its large yellow-green eyes. When it erects its feathers, which resemble ears, it looks really proud!

In winter, it migrates towards North Africa and the Middle East and returns in April.

In view of its little size, it feeds on small animals and mainly on large insects, but also on small reptiles and amphibians. It is an exclusive carnivore.

It has no fear of man and can often be seen in parks and gardens. The Scops Owl nests in cavities prepared by woodpeckers made in old trees.

Although its habitat is under pressure (destruction of the forests…) and although it pays a heavy toll to road traffic, the species is not regarded as threatened.