Short-eared Owl
Asio flammeus
Overview
Short-eared owls hunt by day. Foulshaw Moss. Martindale. That buoyant, quartering flight. Vole years bring more. Dusk and dawn are best. They're nomadic. Numbers vary.
At a Glance
| Order | Strigiformes |
| Family | Strigidae |
| Habitat | Moorland · Rough grassland · Blanket bog |
| Diet | Voles, small mammals. Hunts by day. |
| UK population | Around 2,000 pairs. Fluctuates with vole numbers. |
| Lake District | Foulshaw Moss. Martindale. Moorland. They hunt by day. That moth-like flight. Vole years mean more owls. |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Moorland and rough grassland. Foulshaw Moss, the fells, Martindale. That buoyant, quartering flight.
Identification
Medium owl. Pale. Yellow eyes. Hunts by day. Buoyant flight. Long wings. The ears are barely visible.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Moorland. Dusk and dawn. Vole years. Foulshaw Moss. Scan for that quartering flight. Don't confuse with harrier. Owl has rounder head.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is on the UK Amber List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating moderate concern. Population monitoring and habitat management remain important for its continued recovery.
Plan your visit to the Lake District
RSPB Haweswater, Grizedale Forest, Leighton Moss. Practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.