Owls are known for their large, round facial discs that resemble human ears. However, these facial discs are not actually their ears! The ear tufts or “horns” that some owls possess are also not ears. So what gives owls the appearance of having feathered ears?
The Owl’s Facial Disc
While they may look like ears, the circular facial discs of owls contain an owl’s eyes, not its ears. The facial discs are made up of small, tightly packed feathers arranged in a circular pattern. The feathers help direct sounds towards an owl’s actual ears, which are openings or holes located on each side of the head, hidden by the feathers of the facial disc.
The unique facial discs of owls serve several important functions:
- Funnel sound to the owl’s ears to enhance hearing
- Reflect and focus light into the owl’s eyes to sharpen vision
- Camouflage the owl’s eyes to make them less visible to prey
By channeling sound and light, the facial disc gives owls exceptionally good eyesight and hearing abilities. It essentially acts like a satellite dish, allowing owls to detect even the faintest noises and movements.
Owl Ear Tufts
While an owl’s ears are hidden behind their facial discs, some owls possess a second set of distinctive feathers on the top of their heads called ear tufts. These feathers are not actually ears, but help owls communicate and express their moods.
Not all owls have ear tufts. Whether an owl species has ear tufts depends on the type of owl:
- Prominent ear tufts: Great horned owl, barred owl, long-eared owl
- Small or barely visible ear tufts: Barn owl, short-eared owl
- No ear tufts: Eastern screech owl, burrowing owl, saw whet owl
When present, owls can voluntarily raise and lower these head feathers. Ear tufts are used to:
- Show aggression or indicate an excited state by raising the tufts upright
- Appear less threatening by lying flat against the head
- Camouflage against tree bark by positioning horizontally
So while ear tufts may resemble ears or horns, they serve as a type of non-verbal communication rather than having any auditory function.
Owl Species with “Feathered Ears”
There are dozens of different owl species worldwide, but some have more obvious feathered facial disc and ear tuft features that give them the stereotypical “wise old owl” look.
Great Horned Owl
The great horned owl has very prominent ear tufts, nearly 2 inches tall, that resemble horns or ears. Their facial disc is also large and rounded. Overall, they have one of the most quintessential “owl” looks.
Barred Owl
Barred owls have noticeable ear tufts and robust facial discs that direct sound towards their ears located behind the discs. Their eyes are framed by the characteristic heart-shaped facial disc pattern.
Long-eared Owl
As their name suggests, long-eared owls have two prominent ear tufts that are over 2 inches long. These feathers can be raised and lowered to display the owl’s mood. They have a medium-sized facial disc relative to other owls.
Barn Owl
While barn owls have a heart-shaped facial disc like the barred owl, their ear tufts are much smaller and not as noticeable. The light-colored plumage on their face helps direct more sound to their ears.
Short-eared Owl
Despite their name, short-eared owls do not actually have external ear tufts, though they do have slightly elongated head feathers. Their facial disc feathers are elongated to funnel sound into each ear cavity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are owl ear tufts their actual ears?
No, an owl’s ear tufts are feather modifications on the top of their head used for communication, camouflage, and expressing mood. Their ears are actually small openings hidden behind their facial discs.
Can all owl species move their ear tufts?
Owls with prominent ear tufts like the great horned owl can voluntarily raise, lower, and position their ear tufts. Species with smaller or barely visible ear tufts likely have little to no voluntary control.
Do ear tufts help owls hear better?
No, ear tufts play no role in hearing. An owl’s facial disc directs sound into their ear openings. Ear tufts only serve as visual communication tools.
How do owls change their ear positions?
Small muscles at the base of the ear tufts allow owls to alter the feathers’ orientation. An owl can lay the ear tufts flat against its head or raise them fully upright within seconds.
Can owls move their facial discs?
No, an owl’s facial disc made up of densely packed feathers is fixed and does not move. The facial disc always maintains its round, heart-shaped, or oblong form.
Conclusion
While they appear ear-like, the feathered facial discs and ear tufts of owls actually have nothing to do with hearing. Instead, the facial discs funnel sound and light to enhance an owl’s senses, while ear tufts are used for communication and camouflage. The next time you see an owl that looks like it’s all ears, remember those “ears” aren’t ears at all!