Athene noctua, commonly known as the little owl, is a small bird of prey found across Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. It typically measures about 21 to 28 centimeters in length and has a wingspan of 50 to 60 centimeters. The little owl has a distinctive appearance, featuring a rounded head, yellow eyes, and a mottled brown and white plumage that provides effective camouflage in its natural habitat. This species prefers open landscapes, such as farmland and grasslands, where it can hunt for insects, small mammals, and other invertebrates. Athene noctua is known for its adaptability to human environments, often nesting in buildings or old trees. Its call is a characteristic "kew-kew," which can be heard during the breeding season.