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What purpose do ear tufts serve for many owl species?
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Owl
Great horned owl (Bubo virginianus).
Many owl species possess erectile feather tufts above their eyes, which are often colloquially referred to as "ears" or "horns." Contrary to their common names, these tufts do not function as part of the bird's auditory system.
Instead, these tufts serve a primarily visual purpose related to concealing coloration. By breaking up the round outline of the owl's head, the tufts help the bird blend into its environment, making it appear more like a broken branch or part of a tree when the owl is at its daytime roost. Additionally, when an owl is attempting to avoid detection, it may elevate these tufts while compressing its plumage and half-closing its eyes to further enhance this camouflage.12