Owls have extraordinary sight and hearing capability. Their eyes are large and used to hunt during the night. Ears of the owl are even more remarkable. They are openings in the side of the head surrounded by deep, soft feathers, which the owl can shape to direct sound into the ear. The bird's facial disc, generally outlined by some change in feather pattern or color on the face, is also believed to help direct sound into the ear canal.
Owl feathers are very soft in comparison to other birds and aid the owl in approaching prey quietly.
They can strike their victims in the air, on the ground or even in trees by using long, sharp talons. Even though owls are occasionally taken by birds such as the goshawk or golden eagle, their primary predator is man. Often, owls are shot or trapped under the assumption they have a negative effect on game bird populations. What we should remember is that owls are simply making a living by eating what is available just like any other predator. Owls are migratory birds protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.