First breeding detection of the dwarf ear owl in the Neusiedler See-Seewinkel

First breeding detection of the dwarf ear owl in the Neusiedler See-Seewinkel

In the picturesque National Park Neusiedler See-Seewinkel, a significant success was achieved in bird breeding: The rare dwarf ear owl (OTUS SCOPS) has successfully brooded this year. This message comes as part of a project that created the collaboration between the ornithologist Leander Khil and Daniel Leopoldsberger and started in 2023.

As part of this project, special nesting aids for birds that breed in large tree caves were installed. Those responsible for the national park said that there are only a few old trees in the region, which makes the natural nesting places rare. However, such cavities are vital for many endangered bird species. Thanks to the donations of Leander Khil and the Nature Conservation Association Orpheus Zurich, the nesting aids were manufactured in a workshop with Daniel Leopoldsberger.

successful brood in Seewinkel

In 2024, the dwarf's owl was now recorded in one of these nesting boxes. This represents the first breeding detection of this kind in Seewinkel. The national park is optimistic and is already planning further nesting aids to improve the living conditions for these special cave breeders.

The dwarf ear owl, which is widespread in Europe, Asia and North Africa, is one of the smaller owl species with a height of around 19 to 21 centimeters and a span of 47 to 54 centimeters. These nocturnal bird hunters prefer open landscapes with isolated trees and clean themselves mainly by insects and small vertebrates.

rare species in Burgenland

Within the Austrian bird world, the dwarf ear owl is one of the rarest breeding birds. With only about 70 breeding pairs in the entire region, it is considered "very endangered". In the BirdLife Austria ampell list, it is classified at the highest “red” risk level. This characteristic way is mainly found in orchards and forested meadow areas. Of four regularly occupied breeding sites in Austria, two are in Burgenland, one in Styria and one in Carinthia.

The monitoring of Birdlife Austria in South Burgenland shows pleasing developments: "The number of breeding pairs has more than doubled since the previous year. In the meantime, there are seven breeding pairs who have raised 23 young birds. These are almost three times as in the previous year!" These positive numbers reflect the commitment and efforts of the conservationists to promote and preserve the habitats of these impressive birds.

In addition, the good brood season of the dwarf ear owl shows that projects for preserving rare species are still necessary. The creation of suitable habitats remains a central challenge that must be tackled with combined forces. More information on this topic can be found in a detailed report www.meinbezirk.at .