Original post – 30 Apr 2020 – Source
by Willowbrook Wildlife Center
in Glen Ellyn, Illinois
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”Our long-eared owl patient, who could blend right into the bark of a tree, has head and eye trauma injuries consistent with a collision. We are seeing improvement in the inflammation of her eyes. That startled look is typical for this species, which looks like a smaller, skinny great horned owl.

”The common names of these birds really have nothing to do with their actual ears, but instead refer to the feather tufts on the top of their heads. These tufts help them to camouflage and may act as a tool for communication as they can raise and lower them. Their actual ears are on the sides of their heads, and sounds are directed right into them with the help of the head and facial feathers controlled by these birds. It makes them amazing hunters by sound alone!

”Seeing these types of birds in Illinois is a treat and gives us reason to celebrate the variety of habitats we provide, especially in our forest preserves. It’s another great reason to take care to keep our wild places healthy, diverse, and safe for all users.”

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