Little Owl vs Long-eared Owl
Athene noctua versus Asio otus
Play a quiz with Little Owl and Long-eared Owl
Little Owl
Long-eared Owl
In short
The Little Owl is a small, stocky owl with a flat head, while the Long-eared Owl is larger and more slender, with prominent ear tufts. These structural differences are the most reliable field marks when distinguishing between the two species.
Identification tips
- Look for the presence of ear tufts; the Long-eared Owl has them, the Little Owl does not. 2. Note the size and shape: the Little Owl is smaller and more compact, while the Long-eared Owl is larger and more slender. 3. Observe the plumage pattern: the Little Owl has a more mottled appearance, whereas the Long-eared Owl has vertical streaks.
Size
The Little Owl is smaller and more compact, whereas the Long-eared Owl is larger and more elongated.
Plumage
The Little Owl has a mottled brown and white plumage with a distinctive white supercilium, while the Long-eared Owl features a more uniform brown plumage with striking vertical streaks and prominent ear tufts.