Eastern grass owl facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eastern grass owl |
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| Conservation status | |
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Tyto
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| Species: |
longimembris
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The eastern grass owl (Tyto longimembris) is a fascinating type of owl. It's also known as the Chinese grass owl or Australian grass owl. These owls belong to the Tytonidae family, which includes barn owls. They mostly hunt and eat small rodents, like mice and rats.
Some scientists think this owl is very similar to the African grass owl. They believe they might even be the same species. However, other experts see them as two different kinds of owls.
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About the Eastern Grass Owl
The eastern grass owl is a medium-sized bird. It's about the same size as a barn owl. Male owls are usually between 32 to 38 centimeters (about 12.5 to 15 inches) long. Females are a bit bigger, measuring 35 to 42 centimeters (about 14 to 16.5 inches).
Their wingspan can reach from 100 to 116 centimeters (about 39 to 45.5 inches). A female owl weighs around 460 grams (16 ounces), while a male weighs about 400 grams (14 ounces).
What do they look like?
Eastern grass owls have dark brown or tan feathers on their upper bodies. They also have pale spots. Their wings show black and tan stripes. They have a very light-colored beak, and their legs are covered in feathers. Their eyes are dark brown. Like all Tyto owls, they have a special heart-shaped face. This face is buff-brown with a white border.
Sounds of the Eastern Grass Owl
The main sound an eastern grass owl makes is a loud, hissing screech. This is similar to other Tyto owls. Their screech is louder than a barn owl's but not as loud as a masked owl's.
How Eastern Grass Owls Hunt
Studies in Australia show that these owls mostly eat long-haired rats and cane rats. They find their prey while flying. The owl uses its long legs to reach through thick grass and catch its meal.
Where Eastern Grass Owls Live
These owls prefer to live in tall grasslands and swampy areas. They make their roosts (places to rest) by flattening plants. They create "tunnels" through the swamp plants to move around. They also build their nests in similar spots.
Where are Eastern Grass Owls Found?
Eastern grass owls live in many parts of the world. You can find them in eastern, southern, and southeast Asia. They also live in parts of New Guinea and Australia, especially in Queensland. They have also been seen on islands along the coast in the western Pacific.
Protecting the Eastern Grass Owl
Globally, eastern grass owls are considered a species of "least concern." This means they are not currently at high risk of disappearing. This is mainly because they live in so many different places. However, in Australia, specifically in New South Wales, the Tyto longimembris is listed as "vulnerable." This means they need special protection in that area.
See also
In Spanish: Lechuza patilarga para niños
