Tawny owl meaning

A tawny owl is a type of owl with a brownish-orange plumage.


Tawny owl definitions

Word backwards ynwat lwo
Part of speech The part of speech of the word "tawny owl" is a noun.
Syllabic division taw-ny owl
Plural The plural of tawny owl is tawny owls.
Total letters 8
Vogais (2) a,o
Consonants (5) t,w,n,y,l

The tawny owl is a medium-sized owl with a round body, a large head, and a distinctive "tu-whit, tu-whoo" call. Scientifically known as Strix aluco, this species is widespread across Europe and Asia, inhabiting woodlands, parks, gardens, and even urban areas.

Physical Characteristics

The tawny owl has a wingspan of around 95-110 cm and can weigh between 385-800 grams. Its plumage varies in color from reddish-brown to grey-brown, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. These owls have a sharp, hooked beak and powerful talons for capturing prey.

Habitat and Behavior

Tawny owls are nocturnal hunters, preying primarily on small mammals like voles, mice, and shrews. They also feed on birds, insects, worms, and even fish. These owls are known for their silent flight, thanks to specialized feathers that muffle sound. They are territorial birds, with males often hooting to mark their territory.

Conservation Status

The tawny owl is not considered globally threatened, but population numbers are decreasing in certain areas due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Conservation efforts focus on preserving their woodland habitats and maintaining biodiversity to support their prey species.

Interesting Facts

One fascinating aspect of the tawny owl is its ability to adapt to a variety of environments, from dense forests to urban parks. They have also been known to nest in man-made structures like barns and church steeples. Additionally, their distinctive call has led to various interpretations in folklore and mythology.


Tawny owl Examples

  1. The tawny owl is commonly found in woodlands across Europe.
  2. I heard the distinctive hoot of a tawny owl while camping in the forest.
  3. The tawny owl is known for its excellent night vision and hunting skills.
  4. During a nighttime walk, we were lucky to spot a tawny owl perched on a tree branch.
  5. The tawny owl's call can be quite eerie to those unfamiliar with it.
  6. A tawny owl's feathers blend perfectly with the bark of trees, making them hard to spot.
  7. Tawny owls often nest in old buildings or hollow trees.
  8. The tawny owl's diet consists mainly of small mammals such as mice and voles.
  9. In folklore, the tawny owl is sometimes associated with wisdom and magic.
  10. During a nature walk, we were fortunate to witness a tawny owl in flight.


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  • Updated 02/04/2024 - 23:08:23