Long-eared Owl Support Suffolk 

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Background

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Long-eared Owls are the UK’s rarest breeding owl and are very under-studied and under-recorded. They are a scarce breeding species here in Suffolk with a substantial decline in their population since the 1900s.

Suffolk’s LEO are probably resident, their population supplemented by European over-wintering ones. They will nest close together

LEO records are highly confidential and must be kept secure.

Preferred breeding habitats include small plantations/copses, conifer plantations, scattered heathland trees and scrub, shelter belts and hedgerows, wooded clumps and scrubland near wetlands and coast.

LEO will re-use Magpie and Crow nests, also nest low in dense scrub. They can nest close to Kestrels and Sparrowhawks.

LEO appear to prefer less dense habitats than those used by Tawny Owl.

LEO will take to nest baskets to breed; even wicker dog baskets have been reported being used.

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Project Aims: 

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Suffolk Bird Group aims to:

• Create secure a secure recording systems for LEO in Suffolk; ​

• Boost local populations by providing confidential guidance on habitat, survey techniques and nest basket installation;​

• Stock LEO nest baskets available for distribution (for a donation).