:Ma!ch 1895.] 



THE SHORT-EARED OWL. 



279 



The Short-Eared Owl. 

 Otus hrachyotus (Strix hrachyotus). 



on Crooked-Stone, near Crauford, has counted 14 nests on his 

 ground. The small wood behind the farm steading of How()asley 

 presented a remarkable appearance^ the ground being densely 

 covered with the pellets " or " castings " of owls composed of 

 the fur and bones of the voles." 



The Committee were of opinion that it would be difficult 

 to condemn too severely the foolish and cruel action of those 

 who allow or encourage the destruction of this useful and 

 beautiful family of birds, and it was with much satisfaction that 

 they were able to record that many landowners and game pre- 

 servers had become convinced in late years that owls of all 

 sorts are not only harmless to game, but most benehcial to 

 agriculturists, and had issued orders for the preservation of 

 these birds. Seebohm also is very strong on this point, and 

 says, " Too often, however, the poor harmless owl is shot down 

 by the thoughtless farmers, or ignorant gamekeepers, who 

 foolishly imagine they are ridding the domains of a pest, 

 although in reality they are taking the life of one of tUeir 

 most valuable friends." 



