Identification

Nesting Habitat

Nesting Dates

Statewide Distribution and Population

Federal and State Status

Search and Nest Monitoring Protocol

Recommended Nest Buffer Areas

References

Boreal Owl

Aegolius funereus

Tree cavity (spruce or fir), subalpine life zone (usually above 3000 m), May-August. Their eerie territorial call (a rapid series of "hoo" notes very similar to the sound made by a winnowing snipe) are heard in the high country February-April. Ski or snowshoe into potential habitat before dawn or after sunrise. Sometimes they respond to recorded playbacks. Adults make a variety of high-pitched wails and laser-like screams around the nest. They hunt voles and other small rodents in meadows and open forests.