What are owl ear tufts?

Owl ear tufts are prominent feathers that extend above or behind an owl's eyes. They are not real ears but rather modified feathers. They are one of the unique characteristics that distinguish owls from other birds of prey.

Functions of owl ear tufts:

1. Camouflage: The tufts can help the owl blend in with its surroundings, creating a disruptive pattern that makes it harder for predators or prey to spot.

2. Protection: The tufts may also provide some protection for the owl's eyes and ears from dust, dirt, and debris.

3. Communication: Owls have specialized muscles around their ears that allow them to move the tufts independently, which can be used for communication and visual displays.

4. Facial expressions: The tufts can help the owl convey different emotional states and intentions. For example,豎起的簇狀物可能表明恐懼或激怒，而展開的簇狀物可能表明警覺性。

5. Species recognition: The size, shape, and position of the ear tufts can vary between owl species, and they can be used for identification and species recognition.

Despite their common name, owl ear tufts are not directly involved in hearing. Owls have exceptionally acute hearing abilities, but it's achieved through the structure and positioning of their ears, not the presence of tufts.