Burrowing Owls: Underground Dwellers of the Open Country

Burrowing Owl Basics

The burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) is a small, long-legged owl found throughout open landscapes of North and South America. These owls are typically sandy-colored with bright-yellow eyes and live underground in burrows they've dug themselves or taken over from prairie dogs or ground squirrels.

Habitat and Distribution

Burrowing owls prefer open habitats such as grasslands, deserts, and prairies. They are found in both North and South America, with the largest populations in the United States, Mexico, and Argentina.

Diet and Behavior

Burrowing owls are opportunistic predators that will eat a variety of small animals, including insects, rodents, birds, and lizards. They are active during the day and night, but they are most active around dawn and dusk.

Conservation Status

Burrowing owls are a species of concern due to habitat loss and fragmentation. The conversion of grasslands to agricultural land has been a major factor in the decline of burrowing owls. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and restore burrowing owl habitat.

Conclusion

Burrowing owls are fascinating creatures that have adapted to life in the open country. Their ability to live underground and their opportunistic hunting behavior have allowed them to survive in a variety of habitats. However, these owls are threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation, and conservation efforts are needed to protect their future.