84 FAMILIAR IF I LB BIRDS. 



is generally to be found in plantations and large woods^. or 

 ivy-covered rocks. Although^ as a rule^ a bird of nocturnal 

 habits, it may often be seen in daylight, sometimes long 

 before sunset, busily hunting for material to satisfy itself 

 or enrich the family larder. 



The flight is not very rapid, but well sustained, even, 

 and noiseless. When attacked, the bird will throw itself 

 on its back, and defend itself vigorousl}^ with claws and 

 beak, at the same time snapping the mandibles together, 

 and hissing in a defiant manner. 



The ears are raised whenever the bird is excited or 

 pleased; at other times they are depressed. According to 

 Morris, the bird is fond of having these feathery appen- 

 dages rubbed ; but the experiment (unless upon terms of 

 great intimacy) is scarcely one to be recommended. The 

 Long-eared Owl is frequently kept in confinement, and has 

 been known to live many yearsj)( 



