A slow-winged display flight with occasional wing beats and wing-clapping. The nest is a roughly lined scrape hidden among grass heather, marram, or dead reeds. The 4 to 8 white eggs, though up to 14 in years when voles are plentiful, are laid in late April or early May at 2-day intervals. Incubation, by the female alone, commences with the first egg and lasts 24 to 28 days. The young leave the nest after 12 to 17 days and fly after 24 to 27 days. One brood is usual, though in years of vole abundance, two broods may be attempted.

Registered Charity Number: 1055489 Limited Company Number: 5296745

The World Owl Trust is a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) and the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EAZA). The Trust relies on a dedicated membership, visitors, donations and legacies.