Tawny Owl (European Wood Owl, Brown Owl)

These feathers display the warm 'tawny' coloration and distinct white spotting characteristic of the Strix aluco. The owl itself is a stocky, medium-sized bird with a large rounded head, black eyes, and no ear tufts. It is the classic owl of British and European literature, known for its vocal 'tu-whit tu-whoo' call.

Rich rufous-brown or tawny base with iconic white/cream 'windows' or teardrop spots on the outer vane. Subtle dark mottling or light barring is visible across the brown sections.

Transition from densely pennaceous at the distal end to highly plumulaceous (fluffy) at the base. Visible 'velvet' or fimbriate edges (hush-wing) for silent flight.

Incredibly soft, velvety, and silky to the touch. The surface has a matte appearance designed to break up airflow and eliminate noise during movement.

Bold white ovals on brown vanes, velvet-like texture, and an exceptionally large downy (plumulaceous) base.

Deciduous and mixed forests, mature woodlands, parks, and large gardens. They are highly dependent on tree cavities for nesting.

Common year-round resident throughout Europe (including Bourgogne, France), western Russia, and parts of North Africa and the Middle East. They are strictly non-migratory.

Apex nocturnal predator of small mammals (voles, mice) and birds. They act as essential population controllers for rodents in woodland ecosystems.

Long-eared Owl (feathers are usually more orange-buff and streaked rather than spotted) and Little Owl (feathers are much smaller and more distinctly spotted).

The Tawny Owl's flight is almost completely silent thanks to the specialized comb-like structures on its feathers that break up air turbulence into smaller, quieter currents.

Good condition. The barbs are mostly intact, though there is minor fraying at the tips suggesting they were naturally molted and exposed to some environmental wear before being found.

Found it in Bourgogne