Burrowing Owl
NameBurrowing Owl
Common NameBurrowing Owl
Scientific NameAthene cunicularia
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)24
Weight (g)190
Plumage DetailsAdults have brown upperparts heavily spotted with white or buff, and white underparts barred with brown. They feature prominent white eyebrows, a white 'chin' patch, and bright yellow eyes. Juveniles are less spotted, with buffy underparts and a solid buff breast band.
Vocalization / CallTheir primary call is a soft, two-note 'coo-hoo' or 'who-who' hoot. When alarmed or threatened in their burrow, they can produce a distinctive rattlesnake-like hiss.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, prairie, desert, agricultural fields, open dry areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across North and South America, from southern Canada through the western United States, Mexico, Central America, and much of South America.
Identifying Featureslong legs, short tail, round head, bright yellow eyes, white eyebrows, ground-dwelling behavior, diurnal activity, burrow nesting
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 and roosts in underground burrows, often dug by prairie dogs or other animals. They are known for their curious head-tilting behavior.
