452 



ASIO. TUFTED-OWL. 



those of part of the second. Tail rather short, shghtly arched, 

 of twelve broad, rounded, weak-shafted feathers. 



The species of this genus seem to be those to which the Circi 

 are most nearly allied. In external aspect they approach the 

 genus Bubo, but are less robust. They also bear a considerable 

 resemblance to the Hooting Owls, but have the head much 

 smaller, and its fore part more narrowed by the large disks, 

 which almost meet upon it, as in the genus Strix. Their 

 habits are nocturnal ; but they are capable of flying by day. 

 Two species occur in Britain, one of them the most common of 

 all our Owls, with the exception of Strix flammea. 



'^-'Iiljilf 



