They may also clap their wings in flight as part of a mating display. For this reason, they are often attacked or harassed by groups of smaller birds. This is not limited to one species, as once the attack begins, many different birds will join in. The mobbing may succeed in forcing the Owl to move on to a different area. The retreating Owl is often pursued by the mob.
Owls are generally resident birds.
Some Northern populations of certain species may escape harsh winters by moving south.