The short-eared owl is more stocky and longer-winged than the long-eared owl. It is cryptically coloured in dull buffs and browns, with barring and streaking on the upper-parts, and bold dark streaking on the under-parts. The small ear tufts are invisible in the field. It has a conspicuous pale facial disc, eyes are pale yellow. It is also streaked black-brown on throat and breast. The female on the whole is darker than the male. It is diurnal as well as nocturnal. Often sits on a posts, but rarely rarely in trees.

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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.