On this page

This page lists books about the owls found in Britain or books that include sections about those owls.

The books are listed by publication date with the most recent at the top.

Owl pages

Owls of the world
Owls in art, literature, etc

Owls

UK owls

Barn Owl
Tyto alba

Tawny Owl
Strix aluco

Little Owl
Athene noctua

Short-eared Owl
Asio flammeus

Long-eared Owl
Asio otus

Eurasian Eagle-Owl
Bubo bubo

Rare UK visitors

Scops Owl
Otus scops

Snowy Owl
Bubo scandiacus

Hawk Owl
Surnia ulula

Tengmalm's Owl
Aegolius funereus

Worldwide

There are over 200 species of owls worldwide.

RSPB Spotlight: Owls

Marianne Taylor

2017

"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. RSPB Spotlight: Owls 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."

Informing Best Practice For Mitigation And Enhancement Measures For Barn Owls

Henrietta Pringle, Gavin Siriwardena and Mike Toms

British Trust For Ornithology

2017

Summary: "Using the BTO’s ring-recovery database we have been able to analyse dispersal movements, with the aim of providing insight into Barn Owl movements in the UK. The results of this work suggest that new, high-quality habitat aimed at mitigating negative effects of HS2 on Barn Owls should be located between 3 km and 15 km away from the railway route, depending on the importance placed on minimising juvenile, as opposed to adult, mortality."

Feathers of European Owls: Insights into Species Ecology and Identification

Marian Cieslak

2017

"Feathers of European Owls fills many gaps in current knowledge of owl feathers. The author not only describes the identification of feathers of the European owl species, but also presents relationships between feather morphology and the behaviour and ecology of this group of birds. These findings are largely based on the Author's original research, and his extensive collection of feathers.

Undiscovered Owls: A Sound Approach Guide

Magnus Robb, and The Sound Approach

2015

"Explore the twilight world of owls that you can hear in your garden, the park or woods with this lyrical investigation into their sounds. Listen to previously unpublished digital stereo recordings of the owls of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East, illustrated with annotated sonagrams. Enjoy paintings and photographs, often of the individuals recorded. Learn how to research into evolution, behaviour and sounds invite us to recognise a dozen new owl species. Share the thrill of closing in on a huge fish owl found only a handful of times before, the rarest owl in our region. Travel to rugged desert mountains, where the authors chanced upon a previously undiscovered owl, the first new Arabian bird species for nearly 80 years. Learn to listen like an owl and maybe you could find the next one."

Owls

Mike Toms

Collins

2014

"Owls have always featured prominently in the mythology and folklore of a variety of cultures. These mysterious nocturnal creatures are thought to be symbols of wisdom, omens of death, and bringers of prophecy. In fact, owls are one of the oldest species of vertebrate animal, with fossils dating back 60 million years. Owls have been a source of inspiration to writers, artists, historians and naturalists alike. In a much-anticipated volume on one of Britain's most fascinating group of birds, Mike Toms draws on a wealth of experience and research, providing a comprehensive natural history of British owls. The first part of the book covers various aspects of owl taxonomy, origins, anatomy, behaviour and ecology and looks across the British owl species, drawing comparisons and highlighting differences. The second part takes each species in turn to provide a more detailed perspective, fleshing out relevant conservation issues, behaviour and status. Toms explores Britain's beloved Barn Owl, Tawny Owl and Snowy Owl amongst several others. He uses the vast database and latest research from his work with the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) to focus particularly on the specifics of owls' breeding ecology, their dispersal patterns, diet, vocalisations, description, population changes and mortality. He addresses conservation issues, changes in legislation and potential changes in the status of one of Britain's most iconic birds, providing a fascinating overview of the biology and history of British owls."

Barn Owl

Jim Crumley

Encounters In The Wild

Saraband

2014

"In the encounters in the wild series, renowned nature writer Jim Crumley gets up close and personal with British wildlife: here, the barn owl. With his inimitable passion and vision, he relives memorable encounters with some of our best-loved native species, offering intimate insights into their extraordinary lives.

'The barn owl is an ambassador for life on the edge. It is the night owl that also hunts fearlessly by day; the silent flier with a sudden shriek that can shatter glass; the restless sentry of the outside edge of the woods with one ear attuned to the grassy banks and the other to the first and last tree shadows; the stone-still embellishment on a country kirkyard gravestone beyond the edge of the village, looking in moonlight like nothing so much as the sculptor’s final inspired flourish.'

Owls of the World: A Photographic Guide

Heimo Mikkola

Second edition

2013

"Owls of the World is the ultimate photographic resource dedicated to the identification of these charismatic, largely nocturnal birds of prey. This book contains lavish and spectacular photography from dozens of the world's finest natural history photographers, covering all of the world's 268 species of owls; particular attention is given to subspecific differences, sexing and ageing. The photos are accompanied by concise text on the identification, habitat, food, distribution and voice of these birds, along with accurate range maps. In this second edition, recent changes to owl taxonomy are incorporated with full descriptions (and images) of a number of new species, plus a several new photographs to improve this book's amazing photographic coverage still further."

Owls

David Tipling & Jari Peltomäki

2013

"Owls command attention, the quintessential emblem of darkness, they evoke strong cultural responses, making their mysterious lives fascinating to us. Northern Europe's 12 species range from the huge Great Grey, with a round head as big as a small child's to the tiny Pygmy Owl that possesses a strength and ferocity out of all proportion to its size. For two of the worlds finest bird photographers, Jari Peltomaki and David Tipling photographing and learning about owl behaviour has become a passion. This book explores the fascinating lives of our owls, accompanied by riveting diary accounts from the authors adventures photographing in Europe's wildest places. Encounters with owls are often fleeting, the hoot of a Tawny Owl emanating from a churchyard or the white ghost-like flash of a Barn Owl momentarily caught the headlights. This book reveals these secret lives in spectacular pictures, many published here for the first time. their natural habitats. If we aren't careful, they may not be there for much longer, and each volume is also a plea for protection, backed by leading campaigners. Wildlife Monographs, a series of fabulous, full-colour books led by stunning photographic images with fresh, informative and vivid new text charting our favourite wild animals on their home terrain."

Owls of the World: A Photographic Guide

Heimo Mikkola

2012

"Owls of the World is the ultimate photographic resource dedicated to the identification of these charismatic, largely nocturnal birds of prey. This book contains lavish and spectacular photography from dozens of the world's finest natural history photographers, covering all of the world's 250 species of owls; particular attention is given to subspecific differences, sexing and ageing. The photos are accompanied by concise text on the identification, habitat, food, distribution and voice of these birds, along with accurate range maps."

Owls

Marianne Taylor

2012

"Owls is divided into two parts, the first giving a general overview of owls and their lives, with chapters on senses and intelligence, hunting and diet, habitat, courtship and breeding, migration, conservation and the relationship between owls and people. The second part presents detailed accounts of all the owl species found in the northern hemisphere. Spectacular photographs throughout give extra insight into their lives."

Barn Owl

David Chandler

2011

"The sight of a ghostly Barn Owl quartering a field at dusk is not one that is easily forgotten, but the day-to-day lives of these captivating birds are little known to most people. In this book, insightful text coupled with rarely seen images of the species' life and behaviour introduces the reader to some of the most fascinating aspects of a remarkable nocturnal existence. There are chapters on subjects such as hunting, courtship and survival. The owls are further brought to life through a series of personal anecdotes from the author and photographer, which are woven into the text."

Barn Owl Conservation Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide for Ecologists, Surveyors, Land Managers and Ornithologists

Barn Owl Trust

Pelagic Publishing

2011

"A comprehensive handbook covering all aspects of the conservation of Barn Owls. Written by the Barn Owl Trust, this book includes in-depth information on Barn Owl survey techniques, relevant ecology, Barn Owls and the law, mortality, habitat management, use of nest boxes and barn Owl rehabilitation. Essential reading for ecologists, planners, land managers and ornithologists."

Owls

Chris Mead

Illustrations: Guy Troughton

Whittet

2011

"The book reveals all sorts of curious and unexpected facts about the owls found in Britain, and also some oddities about those species found elsewhere. The book gives readers helpful advice on how to observe and count their local owls and how to assist in protecting them. It even has a section on the design and construction of nest-boxes and where best to position them..... This amazingly informative book has now been redesigned and republished as the first volume in The British Natural History Collection. Sadly Chris Mead died in 2003 so the original text has been brought right up to date by his former colleague and friend Mike Toms. A feature of the book is the beautiful and accurate line drawings and cartoons by renowned wildlife artist Guy Troughton. This special edition also features an eight-page gallery of stunning colour images by bird photographer Mark Hancox."

Growing Barn Owls in my Garden

Paul Hackney

2011

"The barn owl is a 'flagship' species, at the top of the food chain, and its presence or absence is a good indicator of the health of the countryside. This is the enjoyable and informative story of the author's success in restoring this beautiful bird to areas of the country where its numbers had catastrophically declined. From an upbringing in the Lake District, the author developed a deep interest in natural history which became an all-consuming passion. As a 'licensed rehabilitation keeper', he cared for a wide range of injured and orphaned wildlife, giving individuals a second chance by returning them to the wild. He reveals how and why he later graduated to barn owl conservation. The author describes his many encounters with barn owls, from the acquisition of his first breeding pair; 'Barney', a completely humanised owl; to stories of the fascinating array of people involved in releasing, studying, and simply marvelling at this beautiful bird. Although there is a funny side to most situations, there are also the inevitable disasters and disappointments of conservation work, such as the accidental or deliberate sabotaging of releases or the killing of released birds. The reader shares in the author's disappointment and frustration at the sheer cost in time and money and his frequent self-doubt about the success of the whole exercise. However, there are descriptions of more enjoyable activities such as bird ringing, watching home-grown birds metamorphose from ugly pink scraps into creatures of ethereal beauty, and the seemingly limitless energy and enthusiasm of countless landowners and volunteers who are totally committed to the reintroduction of the barn owl. After almost 20 years, there is now evidence of a marked increase in barn owl numbers in areas where the author has worked. During this period, he bred and released around 250 birds, put up nest boxes and advised on barn owl-friendly approaches to land management. These activities helped to reverse the decline in population as areas were repopulated and also created reservoirs of wild breeding barn owls, whose offspring colonised other under-populated parts of the country."

The BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme: Final Report 2000-2009

D. Dadam, C.J. Barimore, C.R. Shawyer & D.I. Leech

British Trust for Ornithology

2011

"The Barn Owl Monitoring Programme (BOMP), funded by the Sheepdrove Trust, was initiated in 2000. The main aim of the project was to provide a mechanism for monitoring annual changes in size of the Birds of Conservation Concern (BoCC) Amber-listed Barn Owl population in the UK. As existing transect-based diurnal surveys such as the BTO/JNCC/RSPB Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) provided poor coverage of the species, BOMP methodology involved the regular visitation of an established network of nest sites to assess occupancy. This approach also permitted the collection of data on breeding success and, through the ringing that occurred at the majority of sites, on survival and dispersal of young and adult birds."

The BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme 2000-2008

D.I. Leech, C.J. Barimore, C.R. Shawyer & S.E. Newson

British Trust for Ornithology

2010

"The Barn Owl Monitoring Programme (BOMP) was set up in 2000 as a means of monitoring Barn Owl populations in the UK. This species is poorly monitored by other BTO surveys, such as the Breeding Bird Survey, because it is largely nocturnal, is not vocal and occurs at low densities. To overcome these problems, BOMP methodology asks participants to visit known nest sites on an annual basis to determine whether Barn Owls are breeding and to collect information on breeding success. These data are collated at the BTO each year and analysed, with the aim of producing annual trends in occupancy rates and breeding parameters. The value of BOMP is shown by the inclusion of its results in the annual publication The State of the UK's Birds (e.g. Eaton et al. 2009a). This report presents an analysis of the first nine years of BOMP data (2000-2008)."

The Analysis of Owl Pellets

D.W. Yalden

4th edition

2009

"This booklet will not only enable you to identify what you find in the pellets of British owls but also shows how the data may be usefully presented and how to estimate the actual weight of food the birds have eaten."

Owl

Desmond Morris

Reaktion Books

2009

216 pages, 91 colour illustrations, 32 other illustrations

"From ancient Babylon, to Edward Lear's The Owl and the Pussycat and the grandiloquent, absent-minded Wol from Winnie the Pooh, to David Lynch's Twin Peaks, owls have woven themselves into the fabric of human culture from earliest times. Beautiful, silent, pitiless predators of the night, possessing contradictory qualities of good and evil, they are enigmatic creatures that dwell throughout the world yet barely make their presence known. In his fascinating new book Owl bestselling author and broadcaster Desmond Morris explores the natural and cultural history of one of nature's most popular creatures. Morris describes the evolution, the many species, and the wide spread of owls around the world - excluding Antarctica, owls are found on every land mass, ranging in size from 28 centimeters (the Least Pygmy Owl) to more than 70 centimeters tall (the Eurasian Eagle Owl). As a result of their wide distribution, owls also occur in the folk-tales, myths and legends of many native peoples, and Morris explores all these, as well as the many examples of owls in art, film, literature and popular culture."

Barn Owls in Britain

Jeff Martin

2008

"The first survey, in 1932, concluded there were 12,000 breeding pairs in England and Wales, and that a decline had taken place due to diminution of the food supply, a 'cleaner' environment and the use of poisons. By 1987 modern farming techniques, including lack of hedgerows, loss of barns, increase of arable farming, had brought about a dramatic decrease, and the 2nd barn owl survey concluded there were only 4,148 breeding pairs in England, Wales and Scotland. The barn owl is now protected under Part 1, schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981; schemes of releasing them into the countryside to build up numbers were misguided and mostly failed; measures to try to help them now include the erection of nest boxes. Jeff Martin propounds theories as to why the decline has happened, and attempts to peer into the future to see how changes in population, agriculture and the coastal footprint will affect barn owls. To understand the reasons why the barn owl is finding modern life difficult, you must be familiar with its nesting habits and preferred diet; these subjects are fully discussed by the author, as well as other aspects of its life: courtship, mating, breeding, rearing young, hunting, movements."

The Little Owl: Conservation, Ecology and Behavior of Athene noctua

Dries van Nieuwenhuyse, Jean-Claude Genot and David H. Johnson

2008/2011

"Our understanding of the basic biology of owls is poor compared to that of other bird species. The Little Owl, Athene noctua, has become one of the best models for biological and conservation research, due to its commonness and the fact that it occupies nest-boxes very easily. In this unique book the authors synthesise the substantial literature, and detail current information regarding the Little Owl. They discuss its wide-ranging ecology, genetics and subspecies and population status by country. In addition, they outline a strategy and monitoring program for its conservation. The book features an outstanding bibliography of literature on the Little Owl, listing publications dated from 1769 to 2007, in many languages, including Russian, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian and Dutch. Whilst being an invaluable resource for academic researchers, its straightforward style holds undoubted appeal for amateurs and enthusiasts."

Buy paperback from amazon.co.uk

Owls Of The World

Claus König, Friedhelm Weick

Christopher Helm

2008

"Owls are enduringly popular birds, but due to their nocturnal habits most species are difficult to see well. The plumages of many species are cryptic and difficult to separate by plumage alone. This problem is compounded by the different morphs that many adopt. This book fully describes every known species and subspecies of owl, as well as presenting the latest evidence on owl taxonomy, based on DNA work and vocalisations. Because voice is vital in owl identification, much emphasis is placed on it in the book and sonograms are provided for many species."

Guide to British Owls and Owl Pellets

Leanne Thomas

Occasional Publication Volume 123

Field Studies Council

2010

"Produced in conjunction with the Hawk and Owl Trust, this chart is both an identification guide to owls and a practical resource for investigating owl pellets. Included are colour paintings of the 5 species of owl permanently resident in the British Isles, shown both perched and in flight, illustrations and written descriptions of the different pellets produced by each species of owl and by other birds (kestrel, sparrowhawk, gull and corvids) that could be confused, and a systematic identification key to the contents of owl pellets, including complete skulls, jaws, teeth and other recognisable bones and animal parts. Text on the reverse side provides background information on the taxonomy of owls, their adaptations for hunting, food chains and conservation status. Further identification information for each species - body length, wingspan, call, habitat, UK breeding range, main prey and conservation status - is given in a table. Guidance is also included on where pellets can be found and how they can be prepared and dissected."

The BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme 2000-2007

D.I. Leech, C.J. Barimore & C.R. Shawyer

British Trust for Ornithology

2008

"The Barn Owl Monitoring Programme (BOMP) was set up in 2000 as a means of monitoring Barn Owl populations in the UK. This species is poorly monitored by other BTO surveys, such as the Breeding Bird Survey, as it is an elusive bird being mostly active at night, is largely non-vocal and occurs at low densities. To overcome these problems, BOMP methodology involves participants visiting known nest sites annually to ascertain whether Barn Owls are using them each year and to collect data about the productivity of any breeding attempts observed. Each year the data are collated at the BTO and analysed, with the aim of producing annual trends in occupancy rates and a range of breeding parameters. The value of BOMP is shown by the inclusion of its results in the annual publication The State of the UK's Birds (e.g. Eaton et al. 2004) and in the reports of the Rare Breeding Birds Panel (e.g. Ogilvie & RBBP 2003). This report presents an analysis of the first eight years of BOMP data (2000-2007)."

Developing methods for the field survey and monitoring of breeding Short-eared owls (Asio flammeus) in the UK: Final report from pilot fieldwork in 2006 and 2007

John Calladine, Graeme Garner and Chris Wernham

British Trust for Ornithology

2008

"This report details the results of a two-year study during the 2006 and 2007 breeding seasons. The aims of the study were: (i) To identify the most appropriate times of day and stages of breeding for surveying and to translate the findings into feasible survey protocols; (ii) To carry out observations to assist in the differentiation of separate breeding territories and to translate these findings into feasible survey and analytical protocols; (iii) To evaluate the feasibility of, and encounter rates resulting from, more extensive field surveys and how these relate to numbers of breeding short-eared owls estimated from intensive observations in key study areas; and (iv) To make recommendations both for field protocols for use in producing a population estimate of short-eared owls in any given area in any given year, and for extensive methods for producing indices of abundance to monitor population changes and allow the results of a full survey in any given year to be placed in context."

Developing methods for the field survey and monitoring of breeding Short-eared owls (Asio flammeus) in the UK: An Interim report from pilot fieldwork in 2006

John Calladine, Graeme Garner and Chris Wernham

British Trust for Ornithology

2007

"This interim report documents the findings of fieldwork carried out during the 2006 breeding season to test approaches for surveying breeding Short-eared Owls."

The BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme Sixth Year 2005

D.I. Leech, C.J. Barimore, H.Q.P. Crick & C.R. Shawyer

British Trust for Ornithology

2006

"The Barn Owl Monitoring Programme (BOMP) was set up in 2000 as a means of monitoring Barn Owl populations in the UK. This species is poorly monitored by other BTO surveys, such as the Breeding Bird Survey, as it is an elusive bird being mostly active at night, is largely non-vocal and occurs at low densities. To overcome these problems, BOMP methodology involves participants visiting known nest sites annually to ascertain whet her Barn Owls are using them each year and to collect data about the productivity of any breeding attempts observed. Each year the data are collated at the BTO and analysed, with the aim of producing annual trends in occupancy rates and a range of breeding parameters. The value of BOMP is shown by the inclusion of its results in the annual publication The State of the UK's Birds (e.g. Eaton et al . 2004) and in the reports of the Rare Breeding Birds Panel (e.g. Ogilvie & RBBP 2003). This report presents an analysis of the first six years of BOMP data (2000-2005)."

Owls (Strigiformes): Annotated and Illustrated Checklist

Friedhelm Weick

2006

"The first systematic owl checklist for over 50 years to include subspecies and synonyms, "Owls (Strigiformes) - Annotated and Illustrated Checklist" provides information on the type locality, habitat and distribution of 220 owl species and 539 taxa, as well as the location of museum collections of skins and mounted specimens, and references to owl illustrations. For each species, detailed, hitherto unpublished, measurements of body length and mass, and wing-, tail-, tarsus- and bill-length are given. In addition to scientific names, the common names of each species in English, German, French and Spanish are listed. The checklist is complemented by many beautiful owl drawings and by watercolours illustrating owl species that have been newly described or rediscoverd within the last 20 years. Reflecting a high level of scientific expertise and the most up-to-date research, this checklist provides an outstanding resource for scientific collections, studies of global biodiversity, and species preservation."

The BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme: Fifth Year 2004

D.I. Leech, H.Q.P. Crick & C.R. Shawyer

British Trust for Ornithology

2005

The BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme (BOMP) was set up in 2000 with the aim: to monitor Barn Owl populations through standardised recording of nest occupancy rates, breeding performance and survival at a set of Barn Owl nest sites broadly representative of the Barn Owl in Britain. This 64 page report summarises the findings following the fifth year of the programme.

The BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme: Fourth Year 2003

D.I. Leech, H.Q.P. Crick & C.R. Shawyer

British Trust for Ornithology

2005

The BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme (BOMP) was set up in 2000 with the aim: to monitor Barn Owl populations through standardised recording of nest occupancy rates, breeding performance and survival at a set of Barn Owl nest sites broadly representative of the Barn Owl in Britain. This 64 page report summarises the findings following the fourth year of the programme.

The Influence of the 2001 Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak on Barn Owl Productivity in the UK

D.I. Leech, A. Banks & H.Q.P. Crick

British Trust for Ornithology

2005

Development Of Methods For Surveying And Estimating Population Size Of Short-Eared Owls (Asio flammeus)

John Calladine, Humphrey Crick and Chris Wernham

British Trust for Ornithology

2005

From the summary: "The short-eared owl is listed on Annex 1 of the EU Wild Birds Directive and is a qualifying species for some classified Special Protection Areas. However, estimates of the breeding population of this species in the United Kingdom are considered to be unreliable and trends largely unknown. This report reviews available information (published literature and original data sources) required to make recommendations for developing and refining survey techniques for counting breeding short-eared owls."

2004 Cornwall Barn Owl Survey Report

P. French and D. Ramsden

2005

"A joint project by the Barn Owl Trust and the Cornwall Birdwatching and Preservation Society."

Barn Owls and Major Roads: Results and Recommendations From a 15 Year Research Project

David Ramsden

2004

"This book highlights the impact of major roads on Barn Owl populations, suggesting that numbers have been seriously depleted over some 40% of rural England. The Trust's findings indicate that the entire British Barn Owl population is to some extent suppressed by the presence of major roads. Significantly, the report goes on to show that juvenile birds which die by the roadside are not necessarily those individuals which would have in any case died in their first year, but rather represent those which would have survived. Another troubling statistic indicates that on minor roads Barn Owls are 57 times more likely to be seen alive than found dead, whilst on major roads they are 3 times more likely to be found dead than seen alive. With the Barn Owl population currently estimated at no more than 4,000 pairs, it is likely that future road-building will slowly but surely continue to reduce suitable, available habitat for this beautiful bird."

The Analysis of Owl Pellets

D.W. Yalden and P.A. Morris

2003

How to identify the contents of the pellets of British owls.

The Barn Owl

Sally Tagholm

2003

Owls Of Bulgaria: Our Companions In The Night

K Nyagolov

2003

The BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme: Third Year 2002

D.I. Leech, J.H. Marchant, L.P. Beaven & H.Q.P. Crick

British Trust for Ornithology

2003

The BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme (BOMP) was set up in 2000 with the aim: to monitor Barn Owl populations through standardised recording of nest occupancy rates, breeding performance and survival at a set of Barn Owl nest sites broadly representative of the Barn Owl in Britain. This report summarises the findings following the third year of the programme.

North Norfolk Summer Sketch Book

James McCallum

2003

"This book of paintings and sketches of birds and wildlife in Norfolk begins in the early spring, continues through the summer and concludes with the first signs of autumn. There are chapters on Barn Owls, Bitterns, Adders, breeding birds of the grazing marshes, Nightjars, Tawny Owls and the return passage of the waders. These are woven together with a further series of topical paintings. The foreword is by Ian Wallace. North Norfolk Summer Sketchbook is full colour throughout, 140 pages long with printed end papers and limited to 1500 copies. The first 50 copies are a special edition with hand-coloured etching on the cover and spine. The following 1450 are hardback with dust jacket."

The BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme: Second Year 2001

L.P. Beaven, D.I. Leech, C.R. Shawyer, D.E. Balmer & H.Q.P. Crick

British Trust for Ornithology

2002

"This is the second report of the BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme, set up with the aim: To monitor Barn Owl populations through standardised recording of nest occupancy rates, breeding performance and survival at a set of Barn Owl nest sites broadly representative of the distribution of the Barn Owl in Britain."

The BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme: Pilot Year 2000

H.Q.P. Crick, C. R. Shawyer, G. M. Siriwardena, D.E. Balmer & M. P. Toms

British Trust for Ornithology

2001

"This is the first report of the BTO Barn Owl Monitoring Programme, set up with the aim: To monitor Barn Owl populations through standardised recording of nest occupancy rates, breeding performance and survival at a set of Barn Owl nest sites broadly representative of the distribution of the Barn Owl in Britain."

Report on Barn Owl Release Scheme Monitoring Project Phase II

D.E. Balmer, S.Y. Adams and H.Q.P. Crick

British Trust for Ornithology

2000

Owls: a Guide to the Owls of the World

Claus Konig, Jan-Hendrik Becking, and Friedhelm Weick

1999

This guide describes 212 species of owls. General chapters cove owl taxonomy, ecology, biology, vocalisation and conservation. The individual species accounts provide identification information and detail of vocalisations, distribution, movements, habitat, measurements and height, geographical variation, habits, food, breeding, status and conservation. There are 64 colour plates showing every species and distinct sub-species, as well as different colour morphs and juvenile plumages. There are distribution maps for each species.

Everything You Want to Know About Owls

Dilys Breese

1998

This well illustrated book covers the British species in detail: Barn owl, Tawny owl, Little owl, Long-eared owl, Short-eared owl, Snowy owl. Also discusses other European owls; owls of the world, owl senses, conservation, and history and legend.

The Long-eared Owl

Derick Scott

The Hawk and Owl Trust

1997

A limited edition monograph on the Long-eared Owl which describes identification, natural history, ecology, breeding and conservation. The focus of the work is Long-eared Owls in the UK but there is a section on worldwide distribution and conservation status.

The Barn Owl

Colin Shawyer

Arlequin Press

1997

A study of the Barn Owl based on 20 years of research by the author.

Owls

Keith Graham

1997

An illustrated book on owls which covers the four native owls in Britain, the tawny, the barn, the long-eared and the short-eared, as well as the two introduced species, the little owl and the snowy owl.

Biology And Conservation Of Owls Of The Northern Hemisphere

Editors: David H. Johnson. Thomas H. Nicholls James R. Duncan

1997

Papers from the 2nd International Symposium held on February 5-9 1997 at Winnipeg, Manitoba."

Project Barn Owl: Evaluation Of An Annual Monitoring Programme Release Scheme Monitoring Project Phase II

M.P. Toms

British Trust for Ornithology

1997

Boxes, Baskets and Platforms: Artificial Nest Sites for Owls and Other Birds of Prey

Sue Dewar & Colin Shawyer

1996

This book describes the siting, manufacture and installation of artificial nesting sites for many of the UK's birds of prey.

Owls: Their Natural and Unnatural History

John Sparks and Tony Soper

David & Charles

1995

A second revised edition of the work originally published in 1970. This study of owls focuses on British species but includes owls from around the world. Includes sections on evolution, anatomy, habitat, lifestyle, behaviour and the relationship between owls and man.

Barn Owls on Site: A Guide for Developers and Planners

Frances Ramsden and David Ramsden

1995 / 2002

"Based on five years of research, and produced with the support of English Nature, this well-illustrated little book is packed full of useful information for anyone interested in barn owls or their conservation. It is specifically aimed at those involved in planning and development which may affect barn owls, with chapters covering problems facing the species, legislation, barn conversions, site surveys, planning applications, and protection prior, during and after construction. Also included are advice on constructing and installing nestboxes. Essential reading for anyone carrying out a barn owl survey or establishing whether a site is used by barn owls."

An Introduction to British Owls

Clive Britcher

1995

A 16 page introduction to British owls with colour and black and white photos. Covers Barn Owl, Tawny Owl, Snowy Owl, Little Owl, Long Eared Owl, Short Eared Owl, Tengmalm's Owl and European Eagle Owl.

1994 Barn Owl Survey Of Cornwall

Keith Grant, Derek Lord and David Ramsden

1995

"A joint project by the Barn Owl Trust and the Cornwall Birdwatching and Preservation Society."

Barn Owls: Predator-Prey Relationships and Conservation

Iain Taylor

1994, revised 2004

"This book explores the relationships between barn owls and their prey worldwide, and demonstrates how an understanding of such relationships can help in the conservation of the species. In this comprehensive account, Iain Taylor describes the biology and ecology of this species, including the factors affecting breeding success, and causes of mortality affecting the final recruitment of new birds into the population. He concludes by suggesting ways in which we can manage and conserve this beautiful bird for the future."

The Barn Owl

M Read and J Allsop

1994

A full-colour photographic treatment of the barn owl. The accompanying text is based upon the latest research and first-hand observation by the author.

The Barn Owl

Colin R. Shawyer

Hamlyn Species Guides

Hamlyn

1994

A study of barn owl behaviour, biology and conservation.

The Eagle Owl in Russia, Byelorussia and Ukraine

Editor: V.I. Voronetskiy

1994

A collection of papers discussing the status, distribution and biology of the Eagle Owl. English language summaries are provided for each paper.

The Ecology and Conservation of European Owls: Proceedings of a Symposium Held at Edinburgh University

Editors: C.A. Galbraith, I.R. Taylor, S. Percival, and S.M. Davies

1993

This work collects together papers presented at a symposium held at Edinburgh University in 1992. The papers cover many aspects of the biology & ecology of a wide variety of owls.

Barn Owl Productivity And Survival In Relation To The Use Of Second Generation Rodenticides In 1988-1990

I.G. Henderson, M.N. McCulloch, & H.Q.P. Crick

British Trust for Ornithology

1993

The Possible Impacts of Releasing Captive Bred Barn Owls in Britain

L. Hanna

1992

A 20 page report.

Birds of Prey of the British Isles

B.P. Martin

1992

"This book explores the history and current status of Britain's 23 birds of prey, including owls as well as the diurnal species. It contains details of their diet, behaviour, field characteristics, habitats, breeding, migration and movements. The paintings cover all the species and their eggs."

Owls of the World: Their Evolution, Structure, and Ecology

Editor: John A. Burton

1992

This revised edition covers all known species of owls with ecological information as well as identification and breeding details. There are distribution maps, colour illustrations and, where possible, natural photographs for each species.

Owls Of The World

Rob Hume

Parkgate Books / Running Press

1991

"A summary of current knowledge of owls together with individual accounts of 148 species. Colour plates show all species. Also includes distribution maps, a full species checklist giving details of size and geographical range, a detailed bibliography."

Barn Owl Conservation in Forests

G. Shaw and A. Dowell

1990

This bulletin summarises work of a three year project carried out in south-west Scotland, where surplus nest boxes in good feeding areas were provided to see if the density of barn owls could be increased. The book includes recommendations on how the results for this study may be applied in forests.

The Enchanting Owl

Connie Toops

1990

A book comprising mainly photographs that describes 26 species of European and North American owls.

Birds by Night

Graham Martin

Poyser

1990

"An investigation of the complex relationship between nocturnal birds and the particular environment that they inhabit from dusk to dawn. The survey covers not only the activities of owls and other nocturnal birds but also species which are only occasionally nocturnal, together with those which are primarily diurnal in habit. The special case of cave dwelling birds is also considered. The study of nocturnality in birds encompasses field ornithology, sensory science, ecology and physics, and involves comparisons of the sensory capacities of other animal species, including man, to respond to the night world. In weaving together the relevance of these various disciplines the author achieves an insight into the sensory problems posed by a nocturnal life style and the strategies and specialization which have evolved in response."

Population Trends in British Barn Owls, Tyto Alba and Tawny Owls, Strix Aluco, in Relation to Environment Change

S.M. Percival

British Trust For Ornithology

1990

A 130 page report.

The Barn Owl

Iain R. Taylor

1989

This book covers all aspects of the biology of the barn owl: its distribution, habitat, feeding behaviour, breeding, movements and mortality. Special attention is given to the problem of conservation, why the species has declined and what might be done to help it in the future. The account is based mainly on an eleven-year study of barn owls in southern Scotland but also draws on other published work from elsewhere.

Owls: Their Natural and Unnatural History

John Sparks and Tony Soper

David & Charles

1989

A revised edition of the edition published in 1970. This study of owls focuses on British species but includes owls from around the world. Includes sections on evolution, anatomy, habitat, lifestyle, behaviour and the relationship between owls and man.

The Barn Owl: The Farmer's Friend Needs a Helping Hand

Mark A Brazil and Colin R Shawyer

1989

An 18 page report with some colour photographs.

Owls of the Northern Hemisphere

Karel H Voous

Collins

1988

An illustrated study of the 47 owl species occurring north of the tropics. Detailed species accounts include information on: faunal type; distribution; climatic zones; habitat; geographical variation; related species; fossil species; structure, vision, and hearing; behavioral characteristics (songs and calls, circadian rhythm, antagonistic behavior); ecological hierarchy, breeding habitat and breeding; food and feeding habits; movements and population dynamics; and relationship to man. There are 50 colour plates portraying all species covered in the book.

Owls

Chris Mead

Whittet Books

1987

A study of the resident British owls and some vagrant species.

Barn Owl in the British Isles: Its Past, Present and Future

Colin Shawyer

1987

A study of the Barn Owl in Britain. Part of this work is based on the results of the 1983-85 Barn Owl Survey of Great Britain and Ireland.

The Year of the Tawny Owl: The Story of Ule of Dildawn

Paul Thomas

1984

The story of a pair of tawny owls during a single year.

Owls of Europe

Heimo Mikkola

Poyser

1983

A study that describes the 13 owls breeding in Europe plus 4 owls from areas surrounding the Mediterranean in North Africa and the Middle East. An introductory general section provides information on origins, taxonomy, anatomy and pellets. Individual species accounts includes detail on voice, behaviour, food, breeding and distribution. A final section discuss ecological relationships with other species. Includes colour plates, black & white photographs, sketches and distribution maps.

Owls of Britain and Europe

A. A. Wardhaugh

1983

Introductory chapters on evolution are followed by individual descriptions of the 13 species of owls occurring in Britain and Europe. The accounts include range, habitat, diet, nesting habits, call notes and many other aspects.

The Owl Papers

Jonathan Evan Maslow

E P Dutton

1983

"The beautiful and the ugly, the are and the common; Barn Owl, Snowy Owl, even the Great Horned Owl, the largest and fiercest of the American species; from a deserted park within view of the Empire State Building to Lake Waramaug during a total lunar eclipse, Jonathan Evan Maslow pursues the nightbird in its favourite haunts throughout the seasons, and examines the owl as an idea in science, history, myth and art."

The Barn Owl

D.S. Bunn, A.B. Warburton & R.D.S. Wilson

Poyser

1982

"In the classic monograph mould, this study of Tyto alba is the product of almost 40 years field work by its authors and complementary observations by other dedicated ornithologists in Britain, the USA and Europe. The result is a detailed, balanced account based on intimate knowledge of the Barn Owl in varying habitats in Britain, comparing, as appropriate, this race's behaviour with that of sub-species in other areas of the world. There are major chapters on breeding and general behaviour, feeding, distribution, etc, but voice is rightly given a full treatment. The text is graced by Ian Willis's fine drawings and there are 31 photographs plus a colour frontispiece."

Eric Hosking's Owls

Eric Hosking and Jim Flegg

1982

A natural history of owls illustrated with photographs by Eric Hosking. The text includes information on owl evolution, taxonomy, distribution, habitats, anatomy, behaviour and breeding patterns. The book has chapters on the Barn Owl and Tawny Owl but also includes owls from around the world.

Tawny Owl

Niels Nyholm

1977

The story of a baby Tawny Owl that was rescued and raised by a farmer and eventually released. The second part of the book includes information about the ecology and biology of various owl species.

A Natural History of Owls

Michael Everett

1977

A survey of the biology and ecology of the owls of the world. Opening chapters on origins and evolution are followed by descriptions of many world species. Includes sections on habitats, food sources, specialized anatomy, courtship, mating, young and the relationship with man.

Owls: Their Natural and Unnatural History

John Sparks and Tony Soper

David & Charles

1970

A study of owls which focuses on British species but includes owls from around the world. Includes sections on evolution, anatomy, habitat, lifestyle, behaviour and the relationship between owls and man.

Bird Study, Volume 7, Issue 4

Main articles:

• The Economic Importance of Birds in Forests - Herbert Bruns
• The Mute Swan Census in England and Wales 1955–56 - Bruce Campbell
• A Survey of Vertebrate Road Mortality 1959 - N. L. Hodson
• On the Damage by Birds to Power and Communication Lines - F. J. Turcek
• The Food of Some Urban Tawny Owls - C. J. O. Harrison

Bird Study, Volume 2, Issue 2

Main articles:

• The Breeding Habits and Food of Short-Eared Owls after a Vole Plague - J. D. Lockie
• Diseases in Wild Birds - A. R. Jennings
• The Breeding of the Blackbird, Song Thrush, and Mistle Thrush in Great Britain Part II. Clutch-Size - D. W. Snow
• Ornithological Surveys of Nature Reserves, 1954 - Bruce Campbell
• Reconstruction of Heligoland Traps - H. G. Brownlow

Bird Study, Volume 1, Issue 3

Main articles:

• The Breeding Distribution and Habitats of the Pied Flycatcher (Muscicapa Hypoleuca) in Britain - Bruce Campbell
• The Behaviour of Young Tawny Owls after Fledging - H. N. Southern, Richard Vaughan & R. C. Muir
• Calling and Feeding Rates of Fledged Tawny Owls - R. C. Muir

The Hawks And Owls Of Ontario

L.L. Snyder

Handbook No. 2

Royal Ontario Museum of Zoology

1947

Preface:

"This handbook has been prepared as an introduction to the study of the hawks and owls of Ontario. Sections are devoted to some general consideration of the biology of these birds, including their place, role and interrelationships in nature, and to their systematic classification; a list is given of all species and subspecies that occur, or have occurred, in Ontario. Specific accounts present information relative to the distribution and numbers of each species in the province, and include such brief descriptions of plumages and behaviour as may be helpful in identifying these birds in life. Information relative to the food materials found in the examination of five hundred and eighty-two stomachs of hawks and owls taken in Ontario is presented graphically. Although this information is incomplete in certain respects it is indicative of food tendencies of most species during the period of their residence in the province. Pen-and-ink drawings of each species illustrate the text. These are the work of Mr. T. M. Shortt of the Museum's staff. Criticisms of the text and aid in food analyses, by various members of the staff, have in large measure assisted in the construction of this booklet.

The Barn Owl in England and Wales

G.B. Blaker

1934

A 14 page booklet.

Owls

Montagu Sharpe

Educational Series No. 1

Society for the Protection of Birds

1890's

A 4 page guide that covers Barn Owl, Tawny Owl, Long-Eared Owl and Short-Eared Owl. Provides a brief description and information on distribution, numbers, food, characteristics, protection, plus a page of general remarks.

The Barn Owl

W. H. Hudson

1895

A 10 page leaflet.

Catalogue Of The Striges In The Collection Of The British Museum

R. Bowdler Sharpe

Printed By Order Of The Trustees

Printed by Taylor & Francis

1875

Preface:

" The Second Volume of the 'Catalogue of Birds in the British Museum' has been prepared by Mr. R. B. Sharpe, one of the Senior Assistants in the Zoological Department; it contains an account of all the species of Nocturnal Birds of Prey known at present, with a complete list of references to the literature. Every effort has been made to render the Collection in the British Museum as complete as possible, and to enable the author to overcome the unusual difficulties that present themselves in this family of Birds as regards the discrimination of the species, as well as their description."

Descriptions Of The Rapacious Birds Of Great Britain

William MacGillivray

MacLachan & Stewart, Edinburgh

1836

484 pages with a few woodcuts in the introductory section. There are no species illustrations.

From the preface:

It is not entirely consistent with the object of this Treatise, to offer a formal arrangement of the Predaceous Birds that are dispersed over the globe; nor is the knowledge of its author sufficient to enable him to perform such a task, in a manner satisfactory, either to himself or to others. The general observations which he presumes to lay before his readers will therefore be confined to those species, genera, and families, which occur in our own island. The Rapacious Birds of this country are all included in the genera Falco and Strix of Linnaeus, or the two great families of Falconine and Strigine Birds, the former comprehending Eagles and Hawks, the latter Owls. The Order of Rapacious Birds, however, embraces, besides these two families, another, that of the Vultures, which has no representative among the species that are found in Britain, and of which, so far as I know, only two individuals of a single species ha^ been seen at large in that country.