Strigiformes is an order of raptors that includes over 400 species of nocturnal birds. The owl family comprises 27 genera, including the eagle owls. They are members of the owl family, but have their own distinctive features. There are many species of owls, and they can inhabit almost any habitat.
Characteristics of the owl's appearance
The distinguishing feature of the owl is its rather large muzzle and large round eyes. Its pupils are black, and the eye the iris is yellowThe bird has a short, slightly curved beak. The nostrils are located almost at the very base of the nose.
It has dense, very soft plumage. Its tail is rectangular, and its wings are large and rounded.
Interesting facts:
- Birds that prefer hunting in forest areas have short wings.
- Mammals that prefer open terrain for frequent migration have fairly long wings.
Relative to the bird's body mass, its wings are quite large. This allows for quick and easy flight, allowing it to glide silently and effortlessly.
How do birds differ in appearance?
Birds belong to the order of owls. But these species are completely differentEach order has its own distinctive features. Only the long-eared owl resembles the eagle owl in appearance. It is considered a miniature version of the eagle owl.
Females typically have protective plumage, allowing the birds to blend in with the colors of their surroundings and remain unnoticed during the day while resting.
Both males and females living in forested areas have a brown tint. Birds living in the desert, are distinguished by their reddish colorFemales differ from males in their larger size and weight. The plumage coloration of these birds is almost identical.
Only the snowy owl has a distinctive plumage, with its snowy white plumage. Females, on the other hand, have brownish spots on their feathers.
The eagle owl has a fairly large head and typical plumage. It weighs up to 2 kg. Around the ear canals, feathers can be seen that resemble auricles.
Birds have excellent hearing. But the eagle owl always perceives surrounding sounds through its ear feathers, which are four times stronger than other mammals. Its plumage is a rufous color. Noticeable signs are visible on the middle of its back and head. dark colored longitudinal stripesWith this combination of colors in its plumage, the bird becomes completely invisible during the day. At dusk and at night, it is completely invisible when it flies out to hunt.
The eagle owl's beak is hooked, and its very sharp talons allow it to hold its prey firmly. It easily handles not only small animals but even very large ones. It enjoys hunting roe deer and hares. It also takes notice of ibex, especially young ones.
Features of hunting
Most owls begin hunting only at night. But the eagle owl can easily find food during the day. Its high visual acuity allows rise to a considerable height when searching for prey. Its diet typically consists of pheasants, voles, wood grouse, and partridges, which inhabit sparse thickets and open areas of the steppe and forest-steppe. Given the bird's large wingspan, these habitats are particularly favorable.
Some owls may nest in populated areas, under roofs and in attics. They are often found in city parks. This is also how they differ from eagle owls.
The eagle owl is a sedentary bird, but it often makes local migrations in winter and autumn. It even flies into populated areas and large cities. It is during this period that it is most often seen by humans.
Interesting fact: people sometimes try to tame the eagle owl. But it is quite difficult to trainSometimes he can even attack his owner. The long-eared owl is easily trained.
There's also the Blakiston's Fish Owl. It's the same name as the Eurasian Fish Owl. However, they don't belong to the same order. It's easy to tell them apart. The Blakiston's Fish Owl lacks the facial disk, a characteristic feature of many owls. It retains shapeless tufts of feathers, vaguely resembling sideburns. The Blakiston's Fish Owl has a distinct disk edged with a stripe.
Main the difference between an owl and an eagle owl in the following:
There are many more owls in the wild.- The owl is smaller than the eagle owl in size and weight.
- The eagle owl does not have a frame of stiff feathers on its face.
- Owls fly completely silently, but the eagle owl makes a whistling sound when flying with its wings.
- The owl feeds on smaller animals than the eagle owl.
There are many more owls in the wild.The eagle owl thrives in a wide variety of conditions. It even inhabits mountains and deserts. It adapts easily to any weather conditions.
Owls for the most part prefer to live in wooded areasBut some owls (short-eared owl) prefer open and spacious habitats.
The eagle owl is a very rare bird. Seeing one in the wild is extremely difficult. It is listed in the Red Book as an endangered species.
