Short-eared Owl

The Short-eared Owl is widely distributed across the Northern Hemisphere and parts of South America. Northern populations migrate south for winter, while others are resident or nomadic. Movements vary substantially between individuals and years, reflecting the distribution of suitable habitat and prey.

In Malta, the species occurs during autumn and spring migration, with a small wintering population in suitable protected areas. Breeding has been recorded regularly since 2016, when birds from the wintering population remain to nest. Ringing records and tracking data provide complementary evidence of its local and international movements.

A ground-nesting owl of open habitats, feeding mainly on small mammals. Its nomadic behaviour and choice of breeding areas are closely associated with prey availability.

Globally classified as Least Concern and listed on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive. Local threats include poaching, disturbance by people and dogs, and noise and light pollution. Protecting breeding and wintering areas from disturbance is a conservation priority.