Burrowing Owl
Image: Franco montaño (cc-by-nc)
NameBurrowing Owl
Common NameBurrowing Owl
Scientific NameAthene cunicularia
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)55.5
Length (cm)23.5
Weight (g)190
Plumage DetailsAdults have earthy brown upperparts heavily spotted with white, and white underparts with brown barring. They feature prominent white eyebrows, bright yellow eyes, and a short tail. Juveniles are similar but have less distinct barring and more uniform buff underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a two-note 'coo-coooo' or 'who-who' song, often given by males. Alarm calls are a chattering or rattling sound. When threatened in their burrow, they produce a hiss that mimics a rattlesnake.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across western North America, Florida, Mexico, Central America, and much of South America. They inhabit open, dry grasslands, deserts, and agricultural areas.
Identifying Featureslong legs, short tail, bright yellow eyes, prominent white eyebrows, ground-dwelling behavior, often seen perched on low objects or the ground
Description
The Burrowing Owl is a small, long-legged owl found in open landscapes across the Americas. Unlike most owls, it is active during the day and nests in underground burrows, often dug by other animals. Its distinctive appearance and ground-dwelling habits make it unique among owls.
