• The tawny owl, unlike the barn owl or the eagle owl, poorly tolerates bright light. For it, a dark corner or a hollow is always necessary.

The young owlet has downy plumage that retains body heat; after a period of rapid growth, the species’ plumage aids in silent flight and provides camouflage among trees. An adult brown owl possesses a short, strong, hooked beak for tearing meat, and large dark eyes that allow for good nighttime vision. The facial disc is round and directs sounds to the ears, enabling precise prey location in darkness; the species also has sharp, powerful claws for capturing and killing prey. Plumage of the adult is soft, allowing for nearly silent flight, and exhibits either reddish-brown or gray color forms.