Least Concern — globally widespread, though local populations may fluctuate.

34–42 cm in length with a wingspan of 90–105 cm; medium-sized owl with long wings and short ear tufts (usually not visible).

Largely migratory; breeds in northern temperate and sub-Arctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America.

Winters in South Asia (including India), Africa, southern Europe, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Americas.

Mainly April to July in breeding range; timing depends on prey abundance.

Ground nester; nest is a shallow scrape hidden in grasslands, tundra, marshes, or open fields; clutch typically 4–7 eggs.

Prefers open landscapes such as grasslands, marshes, moorlands, coastal dunes, agricultural fields, and airfields; often hunts during daylight.

Mainly small mammals (especially voles and mice); also takes small birds, insects, and occasionally amphibians.