The Ural owl belongs to the owl family. The owl family consists of 221 species worldwide, with 9 species inhabiting Korea. The Ural owl, owl, long-eared owl, and eagle owl are resident birds, while the hawk owl, cuckoo, tawny owl, and tawny fish owl winter in Korea. The great grey owl breeds in northern regions.

The Ural owl is the largest among Korea's owl species. It measures 64-67 cm, with females slightly larger. It is easily distinguished by its large size and long ear tufts. Its eyes are yellow with an orange tint, and the young in the nest also have yellow eyes. Ural owls mainly inhabit forests with steep cliffs, occasionally nesting in old trees. They are nocturnal and active day and night during the breeding season. Their prey includes pheasants, rabbits, squirrels, and chipmunks. Due to scarcity of natural prey, they may attack domestic chickens, causing harm. They lay 2-3 white eggs from January to March, with an incubation period of 34-36 days. The nestling period lasts about 36 days. The female solely incubates the eggs, while the male guards the nest and provides food. When raising young, they divide the food, with the female consuming it whole and regurgitating fur and bones as pellets. By examining these pellets, one can determine their prey.

The Ural owl, designated as a Natural Monument and a second-level Endangered Wild Animal, successfully nested and raised young in Baekro Park in Hyoja-dong, Jeonju City, since last winter. As of June 15, there are two fledglings and the mother owl present.

#Photos:
1. [Link to the first photo]
2. [Link to the second photo]
3. [Link to the third photo]