Ural Owl (Strix uralensis)

The Ural Owl is a highly secretive member of the guild of owls living in the northern coniferous forest belt, although a relict population also breeds in montane deciduous forests, especially of beech, in Central Europe. It is much less noisy than many other species of owls, especially its close relative the Tawny Owl, and breeding pairs may be almost silent throughout the year. The birds breed at low density, and they are mainly nocturnal in habits. Locating them is a challenge.

In contrast to most of the other owls at high latitudes, Ural Owls are sedentary, remaining within one territory throughout their lives. This is made possible by a more catholic diet than shown by other species, which does not just include those hard-pressed, boom-and-bust voles, but also small rabbits, amphibians, insects, carrion and a wide range of birds from finches to Black Grouse. Nevertheless, vole numbers do seem to determine breeding success. In good vole years 76% of females breed, as opposed to 24% in poor years, and the eggs that they lay are larger, and they begin breeding earlier. Small mammals, as well as other food items, are mainly procured during the night by the “perch and pounce” method.

The stability of the Ural Owl’s life is also exemplified by the faithfulness of pairs to each other, mostly leading to a life-long pair bond. The divorce rate for established pairs is only 2.7%.