Strix aluco, commonly known as the Tawny Owl or Búho Chico in the Comunidad Valenciana, is a medium-sized owl species widely distributed across Europe. Known for its distinctive hooting call, this bird plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance by controlling the rodent population.

Here are some key characteristics of the Strix aluco:

• Appearance: The Tawny Owl is typically a mottled brown color, which provides excellent camouflage against tree bark. Its rounded head and absence of ear tufts distinguish it from other owl species.
• Size: It generally measures about 37–39 cm in length, with a wingspan of approximately 81–96 cm.
• Habitat: This owl favors mixed and deciduous woodlands but can also adapt to urban parks and gardens, making it a common sight in the Comunidad Valenciana.
• Diet: Its diet primarily consists of small mammals, such as mice and voles, though it also preys on birds, insects, and frogs.
• Behavior: The Tawny Owl is primarily nocturnal, emerging at dusk to hunt. It is territorial and known for its characteristic "twit-twoo" call, mainly heard during the breeding season.
• Reproduction: Breeding occurs from February to August, with females laying 2-5 eggs, incubated for about 28-30 days. The young fledge approximately a month after hatching.

The presence of the Strix aluco in the Comunidad Valenciana highlights the region's rich biodiversity, offering unique opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts to observe this elusive, yet vocal, bird in its natural habitat.