132 STRIGIDJE. 



species, and though probably not numerous anywhere, 

 is by no means unknown or uncommon in most wooded 

 districts. It appears to resort to large woods, in which 

 it makes choice of an old tree well covered with ivy for 

 a hiding-place ; thick plantations also of evergreens, fir, 

 holly, &c., are favourite haunts, those of spruce fir more 

 particularly, according to Mr. Selby, being preferred. 



This species of Owl remains in this country throughout 

 the year. It makes little or no noise, except when young, 

 seldom moves in the day-time, unless disturbed, and then 

 bustles out, close to you, with every mark of fear and con- 

 fusion. It feeds upon rats, moles, mice, and small birds. 

 In the stomach of one individual, Mr. Selby found five 

 skulls of mice ; and one I examined contained the remains 

 of a Goldfinch. It is believed that this Owl obtains small 

 birds by taking them off their roost. 



The Long-eared Owl is said not to make a nest for 

 itself, but to take to the deserted habitation of some other 

 bird, when of sufficient size for its own wants ; and has 

 been known to rear its young in the old drey of a squirrel. 

 The eggs are four or five in number, oval, smooth, and 

 white; one inch eight lines and a half long, by one inch 

 three lines and a half in breadth. The young, hatched 

 by the end of April, are then covered with white down, 

 and do not quit the nest during the first month ; when they 

 do, Mr. Selby says, " they take up their abode in some 

 adjoining tree, and for many subsequent days, indeed for 

 weeks, may be heard after sunset uttering a plaintive call 

 for food, during which time the parent birds are diligently 

 employed in hawking for prey." 



The Long-eared Owl inhabits most of the southern and 

 western counties of England, from Sussex to Cornwall. 

 According to Mr. Thompson of Belfast, " it occurs through- 

 out Ireland, and is resident. Where a sufficient extent of 



