Short-eared Owl

The Short-eared Owl is a medium-sized, broad-winged owl measuring 34–43 centimetres and weighing 206–475 grams. Its mottled tawny-brown plumage, barred wings and tail, strongly streaked upper breast, large head, short neck, and conspicuous pale facial discs create a distinctive open-country owl. Yellow-orange eyes are surrounded by dark patches, while the very short ear tufts usually remain hidden. In flight it looks buoyant and moth-like, with irregular wingbeats and long, slim wings spanning 85–110 centimetres. (Wikipedia, Short-eared Owl account)

Short-eared Owls inhabit grassland, prairie, tundra, savanna, and meadow across most of the world, and northern populations may migrate south. They hunt low over open ground, often around dawn, dusk, or even daylight, dropping feet-first onto voles and other small mammals; birds and insects are secondary prey. A lightly lined ground nest is concealed by low plants. Typical clutches contain four to seven eggs, though more may be laid when voles abound, and the female performs most incubation for 21–37 days. (Wikipedia, Short-eared Owl account)