2019 Niue 5$ Wildlife in the Moonlight - Long-Eared Owl Ag

The long-eared owl or Asio otus, so named for its special ear tufts, is a species of owl which can be found in Europe, Asia, North America and some parts of Africa. These nocturnal birds often occur in forests, mostly coniferous, near open meadows. Thanks to a specific structure of their flight feathers, these owls can glide slowly and nearly inaudibly, which in combination with perfect hearing makes these birds excellent hunters.

The beautiful depiction of the owl in its natural habitat has been captured in a high relief design of this silver coin. The realistic effect of the night predator’s image is intensified by gilded full moon on the background.