A large, long-winged, fierce-eyed owl with distinctive dark wrist patches in front of bold pale orange-buff areas on primaries. It spends much time on the wing, often seen by day.

Unlike most owls, this species hunts by daylight, flying low over open ground. In summer, it is usually seen over moors, with or without small conifers, or over extensive marshes. In winter, it visits a surprising range of habitats, from land cleared for building to rough, semi-urban heaths, as well as open farmland and reed beds.