Prey Availability and Prey Taken by Long-Eared Owls in Iowa

Abstract
Prey taken by long-eared owls (Asio otus) and prey population levels were monitored in southern Iowa [USA]. Microtines and Peromyscus spp. made up the bulk of the owls'' diet. Microtines were taken by owls in a highly disproportionate number compared to their abundance in the prey population. Peromyscus were taken much less often than they occurred in the prey population. Microtine abundance in the pellets decreased through the season; Peromyscus increased. Predation pressure by long-eared owls appeared to be relatively insignificant.

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