After six years, the Eurasian Eagle-Owl returns to live birdwatching
The Eurasian Eagle-Owl, known for its distinctive tufted ears and large orange eyes, is making a comeback in Latvia after a six-year hiatus from live birdwatching.
The Eurasian Eagle-Owl, the largest owl species in Latvia, is notable for its tufts that resemble ears and striking orange eyes. The female can weigh up to three kilograms and the species has a life expectancy of around 30 years. Historically, Eagle-Owls were common in Latvia until the second half of the 19th century, but their numbers have dwindled significantly, with only 13 confirmed breeding territories remaining today. This decline has raised concerns about their conservation status and ecological role within Latvian ecosystems.
Eagle-Owls typically nest in niches found in sandstone outcrops, old raptor nests, and on the ground near the bases of large trees or uprooted tree roots, making both adults and chicks particularly vulnerable to predation. Active at dusk and during night hours, their flight is almost silent, characterized by slow, low gliding movements. They primarily hunt small mammals and other birds, which plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the local ecosystem by controlling prey populations.
The specific nesting site has come into focus since 2022, thanks to observations reported on the