When relaxed, the plumage is loose and fluffy. If an owl becomes alarmed, it will become slim, its feathers pulled in tightly to the body, and ear-tufts, if any, will stand straight up. A pygmy Owl will cock its tail and flick it from side to side when excited or alarmed. Little owls bob their body up and down when alert. The head may be lowered, and wings spread out and pointing down.
Some species become quite aggressive when nesting, and have been known to attack humans.
Owls will bathe in shallow water, and also in rain. Hooting is often territorial, and is also associated with courting, the male usually having the lower pitched Hoot. It should be noted that not all Owl species Hoot. Owls can also make clicking noises with their tongues, often as part of a threat display. They may also clap their wings in flight as part of a mating display.