34 Best Burrowing Owl Fun Facts

Burrowing Owl Basics

Burrowing owls are fascinating creatures with unique behaviors and characteristics. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about these small but mighty birds.

1. Burrowing owls are small, standing about 9 inches tall with a wingspan of 21 inches.
2. Unlike most owls, they are active during the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
3. These owls have long legs, which help them run and catch prey on the ground.
4. They have bright yellow eyes and a distinctive white "eyebrow" above each eye.
5. Burrowing owls are found in North and South America, preferring open landscapes like grasslands and deserts.

Unique Burrowing Habits

Burrowing owls have some of the most interesting nesting habits among birds. They live in burrows, which sets them apart from other owl species.

6. They often take over burrows made by prairie dogs, ground squirrels, or tortoises.
7. If no suitable burrows are available, they can dig their own using their beaks and claws.
8. Burrowing owls line their nests with materials like grass, feathers, and even cow dung to keep them dry and warm.
9. These owls can live in colonies, with multiple burrows close to each other.
10. They use their burrows not only for nesting but also for storing food.

Diet and Hunting Techniques

Burrowing owls have a varied diet and employ unique hunting strategies to catch their prey.

11. Their diet includes insects, small mammals, birds, and reptiles.
12. They hunt by running on the ground or swooping down from a perch.
13. Burrowing owls can hover in the air to spot prey before diving to catch it.
14. They have excellent night vision, which helps them hunt in low light conditions.
15. These owls can also hunt during the day, making them versatile predators.

Communication and Behavior

Burrowing owls have a range of behaviors and communication methods that help them survive and thrive.

16. They use a variety of vocalizations, including coos, clucks, and screams, to communicate with each other.
17. When threatened, burrowing owls can mimic the rattling sound of a rattlesnake to scare off predators.
18. They perform a "head-bobbing" behavior to judge distances and size up potential threats.
19. Burrowing owls are known for their curious and bold nature, often allowing humans to approach quite closely.
20. They can be seen standing on one leg, which helps them conserve body heat.

Reproduction and Lifespan

The reproductive habits and lifespan of burrowing owls are as unique as their other behaviors.

21. Burrowing owls typically mate for life, forming strong pair bonds.
22. The female lays between 6 to 12 eggs per clutch, which she incubates for about 28 days.
23. Both parents take turns feeding and protecting the chicks once they hatch.
24. Young owls, called owlets, leave the nest about 6 weeks after hatching but stay close to their parents for several months.
25. In the wild, burrowing owls can live up to 9 years, though many face threats that can shorten their lifespan.

Conservation Status and Threats

Burrowing owls face several challenges that threaten their populations, making conservation efforts crucial.

26. Habitat loss due to agriculture, urban development, and land use changes is a significant threat.
27. Pesticides and rodenticides can poison burrowing owls and reduce their prey availability.
28. Predation by larger birds, mammals, and domestic animals also poses a risk.
29. Climate change impacts their habitats, affecting food sources and nesting sites.
30. Conservation programs focus on habitat protection, creating artificial burrows, and public education to help protect these owls.

Fun and Quirky Facts

Burrowing owls have some fun and quirky traits that make them even more interesting.

31. They sometimes decorate their burrows with shiny objects like aluminum foil or bottle caps.
32. Burrowing owls can turn their heads almost 270 degrees, giving them a wide field of vision.
33. They are known to perform a "distraction display," pretending to be injured to lure predators away from their nests.
34. These owls have been observed "sunbathing," spreading their wings and lying flat on the ground to soak up the sun's warmth.

Final Thoughts on Burrowing Owls

Burrowing owls are fascinating creatures with unique behaviors and characteristics. These small, ground-dwelling birds have adapted to life in open landscapes, using their burrows for shelter and nesting. Their diet includes insects, small mammals, and even reptiles, showcasing their versatility as hunters. Despite their small size, burrowing owls are known for their distinctive calls and expressive eyes, making them a favorite among bird watchers. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect their habitats from urban development and agricultural expansion. By understanding and appreciating these remarkable birds, we can contribute to their preservation and ensure that future generations can enjoy their presence in the wild. So next time you spot a burrowing owl, take a moment to marvel at its unique place in the ecosystem.