360. Asio ivilsonianus. 15 in.

This species can readily be distinguished from the next, which is the only one of the same size, by its long ear tufts; it is also darker, and the markings on the breast are largely in the form of bars. In the northern portions of the United States, this species is probably the most abundant of owls, excepting the little Screech Owl. It is often quite common, where its presence is little suspected, because, unless disturbed, it flies only at night and is a rather silent species. During the daytime it is usually sitting upright in the dense tops of evergreen trees. Crows often discover them, and proclaim their hiding place to the whole neighborhood by their incessant cawing. Owls of all kinds are in disfavor with crows.

Notes. - A soft-toned "wo-hunk, wo-hunk." (Bendire.)

Nest. - They lay from four to seven pure white eggs, usually in old crow nests.

Range. - Resident from the Gulf to Nova Scotia and Manitoba.