The Food of Some Urban Tawny Owls

Previous studies on the food of the Tawny Owl in woodland showed that mammals comprised about 95% and birds 5% of the prey taken.2. The prey taken by a pair of owls with young in urban London, as deduced from pellets and remains, proved to be birds of five species, the only mammal being the Brown Rat.Of the prey recorded 96% were birds, reversing the relative proportions of birds and mammals taken in woodland.3. Investigation showed the House Mouse to be present in the area but less frequently seen in the open.4. It is suggested that this predation represents the natural type in urban areas where birds are the most readily available prey.