A small and long-legged owl that is often active in the daylight. The species was extirpated in B.C. in 1980 but reintroduction efforts are underway to try and have a viable population once again living in their historical range of the B.C. interior. Sightings of this species are likely all of introduced birds or their young but it is not impossible for birds from Washington to overshoot on migration. Being a migratory species, they spend the winter in the southern states and as far south as Central America. Feeds on large insects and small rodents, lizards and birds. Enjoys open habitats such as fields, prairie and the likes.
Similar species:
A fairly unique appearing little owl that, when combined with its tendency to be out in the open during the day makes it unlikely to be confused with other owl species.
Sources:
Ehrlich, Dobkin and Wheye, (1988)
Burrowing Owl Conservation Society of B.C.
Noteworthy Data
Date | Location | Source(s) | Comments |
| November 10, 2012 | Agassiz | S. Kydd fide G. Kalyn 2012 | Photographed in a backyard garden. The legs were not seen so any bands the bird may have were not visible. |
| December 28, 2004 | Abbotsford Auto Mall, Abbotsford | J. Vooys 2003 | Banded. Seen by several people until January 2, 2005. Photographed . |
| Early April, 2003 | Lickman Road, Chilliwack | D. Clegg 2003 | Observed for about a week around a farm up until April 10, 2003. Photographed. Not banded. |
| Spring 1991 | Sumas Central Road, Chilliwack | D. McLaughlin fide D. Knopp 1991 | Seen in fields growing hops. |
Photos
