How Do You Identify A Burrowing Owl?
The burrowing owl is a rather comical looking owl that has been listed as a species of concern in many states. Scientific name Speotyto cunicularia, these cute little guys are easily identified, and a delight for bird watchers. Note your location and time of year. Burrowing owls are found only in the mid to far west of the United States, and in some parts of extreme southern Florida. Though they winter in the extreme southwest of the U.S., they live as far north as southern Canada the rest of the year. Determine whether it flies away or darts underground when startled. When approached burrowing owls will bob up and down, and then eventually retreat to their burrows as opposed to flying away. Observe the habitat. Burrowing owls prefer grassy, open meadows to forested areas. These grassy areas provide them with open views and loosely packed soil. Airports are a favorite urban home for these birds. Check the time of day. Though occasionally active at night, burrowing owls are mostly diurn
