Tawny Owl

Tawny Owl
Strix aluco
Hirkan National Park

It is a species of bird belonging to the true owl family in the owl order of the bird class. In Azerbaijan, it is mainly found in forests of mountainous and foothill regions, including the Talysh forests. It is a resident bird (does not migrate).

It is a large owl. The body length is 40–65 cm, the wingspan is 90–105 cm, the wing length in normal condition is 23–24 cm, and the weight is 450–685 g. The facial disk is well developed. Its toes are feathered up to the claws. The tail is short, and the eyes are black. They are active only at night.

In March, it builds nests in trees. In April, the nest usually contains 3–4 white eggs, sometimes 2–6. It feeds on small rodents, and in winter it also feeds on birds.