Notes:
one of the few cosmopolitan bird species; heart-shaped face is distinctive; no ear tufts; has larger broods (with about a dozen chicks) than most other carnivorous raptors.
front view (California, USA; 2007-07-28)
back view (California, USA; 2007-07-28)
this species has characteristic moth-like flight (California, USA; 2007-07-28)
talons on bird being banded (California, USA; 2007-07-28)
"monkey-shaped" facial disk facilitates hearing (Zoo; 2011-11-25)
looking (or listening) intently (Zoo; 2011-11-25)
the facial disk is offset a bit, helping to localize sounds (Zoo; 2011-11-25)