Burrowing Owl
Image: J. Ribamar S. Amarante (cc-by-nc)
NameBurrowing Owl
Common NameBurrowing Owl
Scientific NameAthene cunicularia
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)53
Length (cm)23.5
Weight (g)190
Plumage DetailsAdults have brown upperparts heavily spotted with white, and white underparts with brown barring. They feature prominent white 'eyebrows' and a white throat patch, contrasting with a dark brown facial disc. Their eyes are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a soft, two-note 'coo-coooo' song, often given by males. They also produce chattering alarm calls and a distinctive hiss when threatened, mimicking a rattlesnake to deter predators from their burrows.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, prairie, desert, agricultural land, open fields
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across much of western North America, Florida, parts of Mexico, and widely distributed throughout South America.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Long, bare legs, Bright yellow eyes, Lack of ear tufts, Ground-dwelling behavior, Spotted brown and white plumage, Often active during the day
Description
The Burrowing Owl is a small, long-legged owl found in open landscapes. Unlike most owls, it is active during the day and nests in underground burrows, often dug by prairie dogs or ground squirrels. Its upright posture and direct gaze are distinctive.
