Tawny Owls are found in wooded habitats throughout Great Britain, including new farm woodlands and many suburban areas. They are not found in Ireland or on the Isle of Man. They generally spend the daylight hours roosting in trees, often against the trunk or amongst ivy, which makes them very difficult to spot. During the winter months (actually from about September through until March) their characteristic territorial calls may be heard (see Listen to Tawny owl calls for more information).

Tawny Owls typically feed on small mammals but will also take earthworms and small birds. In urban and suburban areas they will tackle brown rats, grey squirrels, Starlings and House Sparrows.

With very sensitive hearing and vision, the Tawny Owl is well-adapted to hunt at night, usually from a favoured perch. However, they will also hunt on foot, coming down to feed on earthworms taken from the surface of the soil on damp nights.

Tawny Owls nest in cavities, many of which may be surprisingly open to the elements. The young leave the nest well before they are able to fly and clamber about in the branches. Sometimes they may fall to the ground, where they may be found by garden birdwatchers. Unless the youngster is in immediate danger of being taken by a cat, it is best to leave it where found. Youngsters are quite capable of climbing back up tree trunks by using their incredibly strong claws.