Key data

• Size: 50 - 60 cm

• Weight: 1 Kg

• Diet: mammals, birds

• Season: year-round bird

• Observation tip: Japan Hokkaido

Photography tips:

• Lens: 400 mm or greater

• Difficulty level: medium

The Japanese Ural Owl (Strix uralensis japonica) is a subspecies of the Ural Owl and belongs to the family of owls, also known as EZO Owl. It is native to Japan and mainly inhabits mountain forests and deciduous forests at elevations of 500 to 2,500 meters. The Japanese owl species is a medium-sized owl with a body length of about 50 to 60 centimeters and a wingspan of 120 to 140 centimeters. Its feathers are brown and white, with the underside usually lighter than the back.

The Japanese Ural Owl can hunt for prey both while sitting and in flight. Its abilities enable it to catch animals as large as small rabbits or grouse. The main source of food for the Japanese Eagle Owl are mice and shrews, which it relies on all year round. Among rodents, voles play a particularly important role in its diet.