The Short-eared Owl 



to a great increase in their food, which consists almost 

 entirely of field -voles. In the years when these voles 

 increase to an enormous extent, this species will also appear 

 nesting in considerable numbers, where it was almost un- 

 known before, and in such seasons as many as twelve eggs 

 have been found in a clutch. It is by no means a nocturnal 

 bird but takes its food by day, and may thus be easily 

 noticed on its approach in a new locality. The flight is 

 somewhat heavy and uncertain, frequently twisting about 

 and rolling from side to side. 



In autumn, large immigrations reach this country from 

 abroad, and during the winter it becomes quite common in 

 suitable places throughout England and Ireland. He is 

 frequently flushed from the turnip-fields in October, and is 

 for this reason known in some places as the " Woodcock 

 Owl." 



In plumage it resembles the preceding species, but the 

 markings are bolder and the delicate grey vermiculations 

 are entirely absent. The ear tufts are much shorter. 

 Length 14*5 in.; wing 12 in. 



TAWNY OWL 



Syrnium aluco (Linnaeus) 



The Tawny Owl is a common inhabitant of the well- 

 wooded parts of England, Wales, and Scotland, though in 

 the north of the last-named country it becomes decidedly 

 scarce and local. In Ireland it has not yet been obtained. 



193 *5 



