Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus)

​​​​​*Kentucky Species of Greatest Conservation Need*​

​Status: Uncommon/Rare

Season Occurrence: Usually observed in winter, observed very rarely during summer in scattered locations.

Distribution:  Winter - Statewide, though rarer in eastern Kentucky. Summer - Nesting was confirmed in west-central Kentucky in Ohio and Muhlenberg Counties in the late 1980s.

Preferred Habitat(s): Open areas - grassland, pasture, hayfield, old field, reclaimed strip-mine land, etc.

Nesting Habits: This species does not regularly nest in Kentucky. However, documented nests in Kentucky were found on the ground in grassy areas.

​Note: In winter, Short-eared Owls will often form communal roosts (congregations of several owls which sleep in the same vicinity).​ If you observe a large number (more than five of these birds), please report this to KDFWR by e-mailing michael.patton@ky.gov.​​

Adult Short-eared Owl
Photo by: Kate Heyden

Adult Short-eared Owl
Photo by: Ellis Laudermilk