54 THE BIRDS OF KORTIIAMPTONSHIHE 



few exceptions, the nests of this species which I have 

 seen were apparently superstructures on a foundation 

 of old nests of the Wood-Pigeon, and in one instance 

 certainly of the Jay ; but I believe that it has a 

 special predilection for Magpies' and Squirrels' nests. 

 I do not know that hollow trees are ever used by the 

 Long-eared Owl for nesting purposes, or, indeed, as 

 an abode at any time. 



In common with most of the family, this Owl is an 

 early breeder ; I have found the eggs in the north of 

 Ireland in the first week of March ; the usual num- 

 ber is, I think, four. The young birds remain a long 

 time in and about the nest, and keep up an incessant 

 plaintive and monotonous cry. The pairing-cry of 

 the old birds is a prolonged and most disagreeable 

 scream, but is very seldom heard, and certainly never 

 to be forgotten. This species thrives fairly well in 

 confinement. 



18. SHORT-EARED OWL. 



As'io accrpilrinus. 



With us this Owl is an irregular autumnal visitor, 

 generally putting in an appearance about the second 

 or third week of October, at which time one or two 

 may often be found on the rough fields near Clapton, 

 known as Wigsthorpe Wolds, which I have before 

 mentioned when treating of the Hen-Harrier. I have 

 also seen it and been informed of its occuiTence in 

 many other parts of Northamptonshire and Hunting 

 denshire. 



The habits of this species differ mdely from those 

 of any other British Owl, as it very rarely frequents 



