CXXWI. 



STRIX PASSKIUNA. (I, inn.) 



Ln'Tr.i; Owi.. 



So little is at ])rcsont known re^ardiiiu; the habits of the 

 different species of Owls, which are only j)erio(lical and rare 

 visitors to our shores, that I feel much indebted to Mr. Hoy 

 for the following information regarding the present species, 

 as well as for specimens of its eggs. 



The Little Owl is like the rest of the family, an early 

 breeder. It not unfrequently makes its nest in the holes of 

 trees ; old ruins, however, and the towers of churches, are its 

 favourite resort. 



It appears to be of a quarrelsome disposition, two pairs 

 being rarely met mth as near neighboiurs, during the breeding 

 season. The male commences hooting in January, if the 

 weather is mild, and may be heard at intervals during the 

 night, throughout the whole season. 



The eggs are generally four, sometimes five, and vary a 

 little in size, as well as in contour. 



The Little Owl makes no nest, although an acciunulation 

 of rubbish, arising from its castings, may be frequently 

 found in the hole, which is often made use of, for a long 

 time previous to incubation. 



