RSPB Spotlight Owls

by Marianne Taylor

Owls are charismatic and exceptionally well-loved characters in British wildlife, and have always held a special place in our folklore and legends. Their nocturnal habits mean few of us have been lucky enough to see them up close. In RSPB Owls Marianne Taylor introduces readers to every aspect of their lives including their physiology, biology and behaviour, as well as their history, and future in conservation in Britain and abroad.

Five species of owl currently live in Britain - the Tawny, Barn, Little, Long-eared and Short-eared Owls - and each of them, as well as their relatives abroad, are introduced here in detail alongside top quality colour photographs and fascinating behavioural images, which will delight and inform the whole family.

The book begins with a look at owls in general then examines the five British species in more detail. It discusses their evolutionary history and distribution around the world. Their anatomy and adaptations are examined, as well as their natural behaviours including hunting, nesting and mating practices. Next, we are introduced to their life cycles, beginning as eggs, moving onto fledging and independence, migration, and finally death. Marianne also includes a discussion of conservation as it affects owls, and owls' unique relationships with humans and our culture.

Genres: Animals, Nonfiction

128 pages, Paperback

Published November 3, 2020

Reviews

[Mike Eccles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was inspired to buy and read this slim volume by listening to staff/volunteers at a local RSPB reserve discussing the hunting habits of owls. I realised that I knew little about the physiology and behaviour of the five UK-resident owls. That led me to discover this book. It is a very thorough text describing almost anything you might want to know about these beautiful, if illusive birds. The very high quality photographs that support the easily readable text make this a wonderful, enjoyable learning resource!

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderfully informative book about owls, focusing primarily on the owls of mainland Britain. A well-organized wealth of information, marred by the fact that much of the paperback is printed with poor contrast (medium-dark grey ink on light grey paper), making it difficult to read sections and perhaps bumping the rating down to 4.5.

[Daniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Learnt more about mysterious owls. Really want to see one in the wild. It would be interesting to dissect the pellet, just like treasure hunting :)

[YourVampireBloom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this little and easy book, with so much helpful information! It is perfect for anyone who wants to learn a little about owls, or kids who are interested!