Order: Strigiformes
Family: Strigidae
The Short-eared Owl is a medium-sized, ground-nesting owl with mottled brown and buff plumage, yellow eyes, and short, barely visible ear tufts. In Patagonia, it is a familiar sight in open grasslands, marshes, and shrublands, where it hunts mainly small mammals and occasionally birds. Its buoyant, moth-like flight and habit of perching on the ground or low posts make it distinctive among owls. This species is notable for its adaptability, being able to thrive in a variety of open habitats. During the breeding season, it nests on the ground, often hidden among tall grasses. The Short-eared Owl is also known for its migratory behavior, with some populations moving long distances in response to prey availability. Its presence in Patagonia is often linked to the abundance of rodents, its primary food source.
Habitat
Open grasslands, marshes, shrublands, and agricultural fields throughout Patagonian lowlands.
Foraging
Hunts mainly by flying low over open areas, searching for small mammals and occasionally birds.
