Owls - Kikinda (Serbia)
The Serbian city of Kikinda has numerous number of unusual residents. According to ornithologist the town is the largest and most important winter stationary of Long-eared Owls on our planet, and they have been entertaining the inhabitants of Kikinda and numerous tourists who come to see this world phenomenon for 20 years.
Owls overwinter in the main town square
The love between the people of Kikinda and the owl is mutual. These unusual inhabitants not only give a special charm to their place and attract a large number of curious tourists, but also protect them from unwanted rodents as they eat about half a million mouse-like rodents the winter months.
The owls have choosen Kikinda because the town has lots of greenery and shrubs. In time the birds obviously got used to the constant city noise, and became "honorary" citizens. Today, during winter months, they are part of the everyday life, and they are the reason why Kikinda has become world-famous.
The easiest way to find out if they are nesting on a tree is to look for their poop under the tree. I forgot to photograph that. 🦉