Book 11, Question 31
Why Are Some Owls’ Ears at Different Heights?
Some owls have ears at different heights to help them find sounds in the dark! A sound from above reaches one ear a tiny bit before the other. By comparing the tiny differences, the owl can tell up from down.
More fun facts
- In some owls, one ear is set slightly higher than the other.
- Owl ears differ in shape, size and placement.
- All owls have a facial disk, a round pattern of short feathers on the face.
- The facial disk funnels sound to ears hidden under the feathers.
- The tufts on some owls' heads are just feathers, not ears.
- Some scientists estimate one owl can eat 2,000 rodents a year.
Sources: Exploratorium, National Park Service
Questions kids ask
Where are an owl's ears?
Hidden under the feathers of its facial disk. The tufts on top are just feathers.