Northern Long-eared Owl

You can identify them by their prominent, visible ear tufts and their streaked brown and white plumage. They also feature a distinctive pale facial disk with bright orange or yellow eyes.

The male's primary song is a distinct, deep, and rhythmic hoot that can be heard up to a mile away in dense forested areas. They also make various high-pitched barking sounds when alarmed.

They are a widespread raptor across the northern hemisphere that prefers to nest in the abandoned cavities of trees. They frequently utilize old woodpecker holes in dense woodland areas.

While they are not globally endangered, some regional populations have faced severe declines due to habitat loss. In North America, they are currently federally listed as a threatened species due largely to the fatal white-nose syndrome affecting their prey.