Mary Allen
Introduction: The Winter Burrowing Owl
The winter burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) is a small, ground-dwelling bird of prey that is native to North and South America. Unlike other owls, the burrowing owl is active during the day, making it easier to spot. These owls are known for their unique behaviors, including living in burrows in the ground, and their distinctive calls that sound like a series of short hoots.
Habitat and Range of the Winter Burrowing Owl
Winter burrowing owls are found in open grasslands, deserts, and agricultural areas from southern Canada to southern South America. They are migratory birds, with populations in the United States and Canada heading south for the winter. They prefer areas with short grasses, where they can hunt for food and build their burrows.
Identifying the Winter Burrowing Owl
Winter burrowing owls are small, standing only about 7-10 inches tall. They have brown and white speckled feathers with long legs and a round head. Their eyes are large and yellow, and they have a distinctive white “eyebrow” above the eye. They also have a unique call that sounds like a series of short hoots.
Understanding the Winter Habits of Burrowing Owls
During the winter, burrowing owls are often found in open fields, hunting for insects and small mammals. They also build their burrows in the ground to provide shelter from the cold weather. These burrows can be found in grassy areas or along the edges of agricultural fields.
Tools for Locating Winter Burrowing Owls
To locate winter burrowing owls, birdwatchers and scientists can use a variety of tools, including binoculars, spotting scopes, and field guides. They can also use birding apps, such as eBird, to track sightings and share information with other birders and scientists.
The Importance of Citizen Science in Locating Owls
Citizen science plays a critical role in locating winter burrowing owls. By sharing sightings and data with scientists, birdwatchers can help researchers better understand the behavior and habitat of these birds. This information can then be used to develop conservation strategies to protect these owls and their habitat.
Conducting a Winter Burrowing Owl Survey
To conduct a winter burrowing owl survey, birdwatchers and scientists can use a combination of visual surveys and audio recordings of the owl’s call. These surveys can be conducted in the early morning or late afternoon, when the owls are most active.
Tips for Locating Winter Burrowing Owls
To increase the chances of spotting a winter burrowing owl, birdwatchers should look for areas with short grass and open fields. They should also listen for the owl’s call and look for burrows along the edges of fields or in grassy areas.
Reporting Your Winter Burrowing Owl Sightings
To report a winter burrowing owl sighting, birdwatchers can use birding apps, such as eBird, or contact their local Audubon Society or wildlife agency. This information can help scientists better understand the distribution and abundance of these birds.
Conservation Efforts for Winter Burrowing Owls
Winter burrowing owls face a variety of threats, including loss of habitat, predation, and collisions with vehicles. To protect these birds, conservation efforts include habitat restoration and protection, predator management, and public education about the importance of these birds and their habitat.
Conclusion: Protecting Winter Burrowing Owls
Winter burrowing owls are important members of the ecosystem and play a critical role in controlling populations of insects and small mammals. By understanding their behavior and habitat and working to protect these birds, we can help ensure their survival for generations to come.
Further Resources on Winter Burrowing Owls
For more information on winter burrowing owls, birdwatchers and scientists can consult field guides, birding apps, and online resources, such as the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society. These resources provide valuable information on identifying and protecting these unique birds.