Long-Eared Owl

Long-Eared Owl

Long-Eared Owls of Lancashire: Witnessing Twilight Mystique in Fading Light. Long-Eared Owl Photography.


As twilight started to cast its cloak over the sprawling moors of Lancashire, a magical scene was unfolding. The Long-Eared Owls, those majestic nighttime creatures, were emerging from their hideouts. Their eyes glowed like tiny beacons in the diminishing light, creating an enchanting spectacle.

It was my first time observing them, and I was simply spellbound. There I was, camera in hand, watching these captivating birds sweep through the meadows in near silence. It felt like I had uncovered a secret, a silent symphony performed by the residents of the dusk.

Through the copse they glided, over the fields they soared, their faint hoots barely noticeable over the whispering wind. They moved with such silence and stealth, it was as if they were one with the air, arising from the very breeze they danced upon.

The light was dwindling rapidly, the early evening surrendering to the moon’s rule. Yet in that fading light, the owls seemed to take on a life of their own, their silhouettes ghostly against the darkening sky. I stood there, capturing each moment, each movement, every flutter of their wings until all that remained were their echoing hoots and the cool evening air.

Looking back at that evening, the thrill, the awe, the sheer magic of it all, remains vivid. And as long as I’ve got these photos, the twilight tale of the Long-Eared Owls on the moors of Lancashire will always be a part of me.


Long-Eared Owl
Long-Eared Owl

5 Interesting Facts about Long-Eared Owls:

  1. Long-Eared Owls are named for their long ear tufts, which are actually feathers and not ears at all.
  2. They are primarily nocturnal and are known for their elusive nature, making them a prized subject for photographers.
  3. The Moors of Lancashire provide the perfect backdrop for these owls, with plenty of open meadows and small woodlands.
  4. Long-Eared Owls have exceptional hearing, thanks to their asymmetrical ears, which help them locate prey even in complete darkness.
  5. These owls feed mainly on small mammals and can catch their prey mid-flight.

Long-Eared Owl
Long-Eared Owl

5 Useful Tips on Photographing Long-Eared Owls in Lancashire:

  1. Use a Fast Lens: In the failing light of early evening, a fast lens will help you capture sharp, well-exposed images.
  2. Patience is Key: Long-Eared Owls are elusive and can be quite patient for the perfect shot.
  3. Use a High ISO: Don’t be afraid to push your ISO a bit higher than usual to compensate for the low light conditions.
  4. Experiment with Silhouettes: The failing light can make for beautiful silhouette shots, with the owl against the twilight sky.
  5. Focus on the Eyes: An owl’s eyes are its most striking feature. Try to capture that intense gaze whenever possible.

Long-Eared Owl
Long-Eared Owl
Long-Eared Owl
Long-Eared Owl

In the dance of twilight and the whispers of the wild, our adventure continues. Until next time, keep your lenses ready and your hearts open to nature’s beautiful symphony.

Happy clicking!

Twiggy the Hedgehog