Higher winter mortatality of the Barn Owl compared to the Long-eared Owl and the Tawny Owl: Influenced of lipid reserves and insulation

Abstract

The role of lipid reserves in winter mortality of the European Barn Owl (Tyto alba) was investigated by comparing its adiposity to that of two sympatric nocturnal raptors, the Tawny Owl (Strix aluco) and the Long-eared Owl (Asio otus), consodered as less affected by winter mortality. Adiposity was similar for the three species. Feather insulation, diet, and hunting behavior may explain winter mortality of the Barn Owl.