Migration
Breeding Grounds:
Long-eared owls (Asio otus) typically breed in a variety of habitats across their extensive range. Breeding populations are found in countries such as Russia, Northern Europe, and North America. Within these regions, they select suitable nesting sites in trees, shrubs, or on the ground, with their breeding success closely tied to the availability of prey and suitable nesting locations.
Northern Europe:
During the breeding season, long-eared owls can be found in countries across Northern Europe, including Sweden, Finland, and Norway. These nations provide diverse habitats ranging from boreal forests to open landscapes, offering the owls ample opportunities to find suitable nesting sites and prey for raising their young.
Russia:
Russia serves as a significant breeding ground for long-eared owls, especially in the vast Siberian and European regions. The expansive and varied landscapes of Russia provide the owls with a range of habitats, from dense forests to grasslands, supporting their breeding activities.
Wintering Grounds:
Long-eared owls are known to migrate to wintering grounds in search of food during the colder months. In winter, they can be found in various countries, particularly those with milder climates and sufficient prey availability. The owls may travel considerable distances from their breeding grounds to these wintering areas.
Western Europe:
Countries in Western Europe, such as the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, serve as wintering grounds for long-eared owls. The relatively temperate climates and diverse landscapes provide suitable conditions for the owls to find prey easily during the winter months.
United States and Canada:
In North America, long-eared owls breed in regions such as Alaska and parts of Canada. During the winter, they may migrate to the United States, with sightings reported in states like Washington, Oregon, and California. The availability of suitable roosting and foraging sites influences their winter distribution.
Southern Europe:
Some long-eared owls migrate to Southern Europe for the winter, taking advantage of the milder climates. Countries like Spain, Italy, and Greece provide suitable conditions for the owls to find food resources and avoid the harsh winter conditions present in their breeding grounds.
Conservation Challenges:
Migration routes of long-eared owls may intersect with areas facing habitat loss, climate change, and other environmental threats. Conservation efforts need to address these challenges along migration corridors to ensure the well-being of the owl population throughout their annual cycle.
Monitoring and Research:
Understanding the migration patterns of long-eared owls requires ongoing monitoring and research. Collaborative initiatives between countries, researchers, and conservation organizations are crucial for tracking the movements of these owls and implementing effective conservation measures to safeguard their populations along their migratory routes.