Burrowing Owl
 
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10AM - 4PM

Burrowing Owl

The Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) is a tiny but long-legged owl found throughout open landscapes of North and South America. Burrowing Owls can be found in grasslands, rangelands, agricultural areas, deserts, or any other open dry area with low vegetation. They nest and roost in burrows, such as those excavated by prairie dogs (Cynomys spp.). Unlike most owls, Burrowing Owls are often active during the day, although they tend to avoid the midday heat. But like many other kinds of owls, Burrowing Owls do most of their hunting from dusk until dawn, when they can use their night vision and hearing to their advantage.

Burrowing Owl

Fun Facts

  • Burrowing Owls have bright yellow eyes; their beaks can be dark yellow or gray depending on the subspecies. They lack ear tufts and have a flattened facial disc.
  • Owls have spectacular binocular vision, allowing them to pinpoint prey and see in low light.
  • An owl’s hearing is as good as, if not better than, its vision. Owls have better depth perception and better perception of sound elevation (up-down direction) than human beings!
Burrowing Owl

About Our Little Burrowers

Our pair of burrowing owls is very prolific. In 2018, they produced 8 chicks! This was the first time this pair bred at CPZ - talk about awesome parenting skills!

Conservation Status:
Least Concern
Extinct Threatened Least
Concern
 
 
 
 
EX
EW
CR
EN
VU
NT
LC
 
Burrowing Owl

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