42 
36, Bunoimaxmiusie wibini soll. Soe Tee ees Vols El eRe 
Eacre Ow. 
This truly magnificent Owl, which is not surpassed in size or 
beauty by any member of its family, is a native of Norway, Sweden, 
Russia, Germany, the Italian States, Greece, and Siberia, but not 
India (where its place is occupied by the Bubo bengalensis), nor 
America (in which it is represented by the Bubo virgimanus). It 
sometimes comes to England: and it is to be regretted that its visits 
are not more frequent ; for so fine a bird must be an ornament to any 
country. 
The learned are at variance as to whether this species or a little 
unpretending Athene was one of Minerva’s favourite birds; both 
have always inhabited the country around Athens. I must leave 
it to those who take an interest in classic lore to settle this point 
to their own satisfaction. 
Genus Orvs. 
The members of this section of the Owls inhabit both the Old 
and the New World, but are not very numerous in species. Their 
fiery eyes and long cat-like ears render them conspicuous objects, 
whether seen amidst their native woods or as mounted specimens 
in a museum. 
SJ ORUSIVUIGARIS. . ... « « « «+ «os ,VOldl Plea 
LonG-EARED Owl. 
A constant resident, frequently deposits its eggs in the deserted 
nests of Crows and other birds, and is partial to pine trees. As its 
brilliantly coloured eyes indicate, it often flies in the daytime. 
Feeds upon mice, small birds, and such other food as is commonly 
eaten by Owls. 
«“The Long-eared Owl,” says Mr. Stevenson, “is another instance 
of the changes which have taken place in a few years from local 
causes in the habits of some of our feathered visitants. Whilst 
drainage and the plough are fast driving the Harriers and other 
fen-breeders from their accustomed haunts, the rapid increase in 
our fir plantations, especially near the coast, affords such induce- 
ments to this species to remain and breed with us that the autumn 
visitant of a few years since, only known to stay through the sum- 
mer occasionally, may now be more properly termed a numerous 
resident, receiving additions to its numbers in autumn.” 
Genus BracHyorvs. 
Of this form but few species are known. They mostly fly near 
the ground, but will often mount high in the air. The action 
of their wings appears to be of a heavy flapping character, due pro- 
bably to the rounded form of those organs. 
