Aegolius funereus

Aegolius funereus, commonly known as the Boreal Owl or Tengmalm’s Owl, is a small owl species primarily found in boreal and mountainous forests across Europe, Asia, and North America.

This owl is known for its distinctively rounded head without ear tufts, large yellow eyes, and a dark, mask-like facial disc that gives it a somewhat ghostly appearance. The Boreal Owl is a nocturnal hunter, preying on small mammals such as voles and other rodents, which it captures with remarkable precision even in low-light conditions.

In Croatia, the Boreal Owl is typically found in higher elevations within dense forested areas, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the region’s mountainous ecosystems. Conservation of its forest habitats is crucial for the sustainability of this fascinating nocturnal bird.

• Birds