Common name: Short-eared Owl
Scientific name: Asio flammeus
Family: Strigidae

Size:
Body length: 34–42 cm
Wingspan: 90–105 cm
Weight: 200–475 g

Identification:
A medium-sized owl with a rounded head and very small, often barely visible ear tufts. The plumage is mottled brown and buff, providing excellent camouflage in grasslands. The face is pale with distinct dark eye patches, giving a striking expression. The eyes are bright yellow. In flight, it shows long wings with a characteristic buoyant, moth-like flight.

Habitat:
Open landscapes such as grasslands, coastal plains, marshes, and agricultural fields.

Status in the UAE:
Uncommon winter visitor. Occurs in open habitats, especially coastal and agricultural areas.

Diet:
Carnivorous — feeds mainly on small mammals, especially rodents, as well as birds and insects.

Behavior:
Unlike many owls, often active during the day, especially at dawn and dusk. Hunts by flying low over open ground. Usually solitary but may gather in loose groups in good feeding areas. Roosts on the ground in vegetation.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)