A recent census by the League for the Protection of Birds (LPO) in France has provided new insights into nocturnal raptors, revealing population estimates and distribution for various owl species. While overall findings are encouraging, specific species face significant threats. Notably, the tawny owl is the most common, followed by the little owl and barn owl. The study highlights conservation challenges and emphasizes the importance of protecting these vital ecological players, culminating in the LPO’s “owl night” event to raise awareness.
Recent Census Reveals Insights on Nocturnal Raptors in France
For years, nocturnal raptors in France have been overlooked in population counts. However, new findings have emerged, shedding light on their numbers and distribution. On February 25, the League for the Protection of Birds (LPO) released its inaugural census focusing on these fascinating birds. The overall assessment is deemed ‘relatively satisfactory,’ yet concerns persist regarding specific species and the myriad threats they face, which contribute to their vulnerability.
Findings From the LPO Study
This extensive study, conducted between 2015 and 2018, involved the efforts of 1,200 ornithologists and volunteers who engaged in listening activities. The primary goal was to assess the populations of five owl species and four horned owl species found in mainland France. The tawny owl emerged as the most prevalent, with an estimated 260,800 breeding pairs across the territory.
The tawny owl (Strix aluco) is classified as ‘of minor concern’ on the IUCN’s red list for breeding birds in France. It inhabits various regions, with a notable presence in forests, plains, and mountainous areas, excluding Corsica. Intriguingly, some tawny owls even inhabit wooded parks within major French cities. The LPO highlights the bird’s rarity in agricultural zones and on the Mediterranean coast.
The little owl (Athene noctua), with around 101,300 breeding pairs, ranks as the second most common species after the tawny owl. This adaptable bird thrives in hedgerows, agricultural lands, and lightly populated villages. Although classified as ‘of minor concern,’ the little owl is particularly susceptible to agricultural intensification, which diminishes prey availability due to pesticide use. Additionally, habitat loss from the removal of hedges and trees poses a significant threat. The little owl is predominantly found in Île-de-France, Grand Est, and Hauts-de-France.
The barn owl (Tyto alba), affectionately known as the ‘White Lady,’ primarily breeds in human-made structures such as church steeples, attics, and barns. Estimates suggest approximately 87,700 pairs exist in France, making it another ‘of minor concern’ species. However, recent local data indicates a decline in barn owl populations across various regions, with threats stemming from netting in steeples and increased road traffic during winter.
Estimating the long-eared owl (Asio otus) population is more challenging, with the LPO approximating around 26,100 pairs across the country. This owl prefers coniferous forests but can also be found in hedges and orchards. Classified as ‘of minor concern,’ it predominantly inhabits the northern half of France, particularly in regions like Centre-West, Centre-Val-de-Loire, and Burgundy-Franche-Comté.
The elusive Eurasian scops owl (Otus scops) is only present in France from March onwards. It is difficult to observe and is estimated to have around 17,100 pairs returning each year. This owl primarily resides along the Mediterranean coast and the Rhône valley. Accurate population assessments remain challenging, particularly in central-western coastal areas and Corsica, where it likely breeds in significant numbers. The species faces anthropogenic threats, including habitat destruction and reduced prey availability.
The majestic Eurasian eagle-owl (Bubo bubo), recognized as the largest nocturnal raptor globally, is estimated to number between 2,000 and 4,000 pairs in France. Although the LPO lacks comprehensive data for precise figures, it notes that this species is expanding its range across regions such as Rhône-Alpes and Languedoc-Roussillon. However, it is becoming increasingly rare in certain areas, particularly upstream of the Garonne and Ariège valleys. The Eurasian eagle-owl is also classified as ‘of minor concern.’
Another notable nocturnal raptor, the Tengmalm’s owl (Aegolius funereus), predominantly breeds in mid-mountain regions, especially within coniferous forests. Estimated populations range from 1,000 to 3,000 pairs, mainly found in the Alps, Pyrenees, Massif Central, Jura, and Vosges, typically at elevations of around 1,700 to 1,800 meters. Despite its classification as ‘of minor concern,’ the LPO points out a population decline over the last few decades.
Additionally, the Eurasian pygmy owl (Glaucidium passerinum) inhabits various mid-mountain regions across Europe. Classified as ‘near threatened,’ it is believed that between 1,000 and 1,500 breeding pairs exist in France, with populations found in the Alps, Jura, and other mountainous areas.
Lastly, the short-eared owl (Asio flammeus) is the rarest nocturnal raptor in France, with a population estimated between 40 and 120 pairs. This species is classified as ‘vulnerable’ and lacks extensive monitoring, complicating accurate population assessments. Breeding pairs have been reported in the Breton marsh and Poitevin marsh.
This comprehensive census provides vital data for bird conservation organizations. To raise awareness about the plight of nocturnal raptors, the LPO organizes an ‘owl night’ on March 1. These elusive birds play a crucial role in our ecosystems, and Allain Bougrain Dubourg, president of the LPO, underscores the importance of protecting them, especially as they face habitat degradation and historical superstitions that have long persecuted them.