Tawny Owl

🔍 Overview

The classic “twit-twoo” owl of British woodlands, Tawny Owls are widespread across Sussex but mostly heard rather than seen.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Medium (37–39 cm)

Plumage: Mottled brown with streaked underparts

Face: Round with dark eyes and no ear tufts

Flight: Silent and low

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Widespread in deciduous woodland, parks, and gardens—Cissbury Ring is a hotspot.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Famous “ke-wick” and “twit-twoo” duet. Nocturnal and highly territorial.

🍴 Diet

Rodents, small birds, frogs, insects. Hunts from perches at night.

📸 Birding Tip

Listen after dusk in wooded areas. Look for pellets beneath large tree limbs.