The burrowing owl is found in open areas with low & sparse vegetation, usually they’re seen on lightly sloping terrain. The owls can be found in deserts, grasslands, steppes, golf courses, agricultural fields, pastures, road embankments, airstrips, cemeteries, and even vacant lots. They are often located around high concentrations of burrowing mammals like prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and they even live in tortoise burrows. They have been documented as living from Canada all the way down to South America!
First the Stats…
Scientific name: Athene cunicularia
Weight: Up to 5.3 ounces
Length: Up to 10 inches
Wingspan: Up to 24 inches
Lifespan: Up to 8 years
Now on to the Facts!
1.) Unlike most other owls, the burrowing owl is primarily diurnal (active during the day). However, they will occasionally hunt for mice at night.
2.) These owls don’t make their homes in trees. Instead, they borrow burrows from other animals like prairie dogs and tortoises.
3.) The IUCN lists them as “Least Concern”.
4.) Burrowing owls can withstand high levels of carbon dioxide; more so than other birds. This is, in part, due to the fact that they spend periods of time underground, where carbon dioxide levels can be high.
5.) Just like other burrowing critters, these owls will hoard food. It was once documented that over 200 mice were found in 1 burrow!
But wait, there’s more on the burrowing owl!
6.) Their song is a 2-note coo coooo. They also make a series of rattles, clucks, and chatters. They are even able to imitate the sound of a rattle snake!
7.) When they are about to lay eggs, they will adorn their burrow entrance with feces in order to attract insects that will later be used for food for their little ones.
Did you know…?
Burrowing owls are quick and can even catch flying insects from mid-air!
8.) To show that their burrow is occupied, they will decorate their entrances with things like leaves, foil, bottle caps, paper scraps, cigarette butts, and other types of litter.
9.) Females lay up to 12 eggs in her burrow.
10.) Male burrowing owls entice females by presenting them with food.
Now a Short Burrowing Owl Video!
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