LITTLE owls were introduced into this country in the 19th Century.

The RSPB estimates that there are between 5,800-11,600 breeding pairs of Little Owl in the UK.

They can mainly be found in central, southern and south eastern England and the Welsh borders, with a few in southern Scotland.

Favourite habitats include lowland farmland with hedges and copses, parkland and orchards.

However, the Little owl will also often nest in holes in trees or rocks, or abandoned buildings.

In urban areas, it can be seen in the daylight, usually perching on a tree branch, telegraph pole or rock.

It will bob its head up and down when alarmed.

An adult Little owl can normally grow to between 23-27.5cm in length.

They hunt at night and dawn, and prey on insects, earthworms and sometimes small birds and mammals.