There are five species of British owls, most of which are usually nocturnal. Two are already species of conservation concern. (Barn Owl and Short-eared Owl), two others are poorly monitored, nocturnal and also in decline (Tawny Owl and Long-eared Owl) and the fifth is susceptible to changes in agricultural practices (Little Owl).

It is not easy to count birds in the dark, so it is not surprising that we know less about owls than about other species. Only the Short-eared Owl is commonly out and about in daylight, but usually in moorland and well away from human habitation. To conserve these species, we need to find out where they live, how many there are and which habitats are important. For some species we have some of this information but there are still big gaps in our knowledge. The top three BTO priorities are Tawny Owl, Short-eared Owl and Barn Owl.

Any donation will help us to turn the spot-light on the plight of our owl species. Cheques, made payable to BTO, should be sent to BTO Owl Appeal, The Nunnery, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 2PU. You can also phone 01842 750050 and make a credit-card donation or give on-line.