xllv 
INTRODUCTION. 
native of Norway, Sweden, Russia, Germany, the Italian States, Greece, and Siberia, but not India (where 
its place is occupied by the Bubo bengaleims'), nor America (in which it is represented by the Bubo vh'g'ini- 
anus). It sometimes comes to England : and it is to be regretted that its visits are not more frequent ; for 
so fine a bird must be an ornament to any country. 
The learned are at variance as to whether this species or a little unpretending Athene was one of Minerva’s 
favourite birds ; both have always inhabited the country around Athens. I must leave it to those who take 
an interest in classic lore to settle this point to their own satisfaction. 
Genus Otus. 
The members of this section of the Owls inhabit both the Old and the New World, but are not very 
numerous in species. Their fiery eyes and long cat-like ears render them conspicuous objects, whether seen 
amidst their native woods or as mounted specimens in a museum. 
37. Otus vulgaris Vol. I. PI. XXXI. 
Long-eared Owl. 
A constant resident, frequently deposits its eggs in the deserted nests of Crows and other birds, and is 
partial to pine trees. As its brilliantly coloured eyes indicate, it often flies in the daytime. Feeds upon 
mice, small birds, and such other food as is commonly eaten by Owls. 
“ The Long-eared Owl,” says Mr. Stevenson, “ is another instance of the changes which have taken place 
in a few years from local causes in the habits of some of our feathered visitants. Whilst drainage and the 
plough are fast driving the Harriers and other fen-breeders from their accustomed haunts, the rapid increase 
in our fir plantations, especially near the coast, affords such inducements to this species to remain and breed 
with us that the autumn visitant of a few years since, only known to stay through the summer occasionally, 
may now be more properly termed a numerous resident, receiving additions to its numbers in autumn.” 
Genus Brachyotus. 
Of this form but few species are known. They mostly fly near the ground, but will often mount high in 
the air. The action of their wings appears to be of a heavy flapping character, due probably to the rounded 
form of those organs. 
38. Brachyotus palustris .......... Yol I. PI. XXXIL 
Short-eared Owl. 
This is both a resident and a migratory species ; for, although it breeds in many parts of the British 
