Burrowing Owl

The burrowing owl, also called the shoco, is a small, long-legged owl found throughout open landscapes of North and South America. Burrowing owls can be found in grasslands, rangelands, agricultural areas, deserts, or any other open, dry area with low vegetation. Typical burrowing owl habitat is open, dry, sparsely vegetated land with available burrows, adequate food supply, and perches for horizontal visibility. Although these owls are capable of building their own burrows, they generally prefer burrows abandoned by ground squirrels and other small rodents. Behavior: Burrowing Owls often live in loose colonies. The adults take turns standing guard near the nest burrows. They are active both day and night, especially during the breeding season. These owls hunt by swooping down from perches and surprising prey. Burrowing owls are one of the smallest owls, reaching only 9 inches (23 centimeters) in height and weighing as little as 4-7 ounces (113-198 grams). Females are slightly smaller than males, which is unusual in owls.

Flight Speed: between 20 and 40 miles per hour

Lifespan: six to eight years

Predators And Prey: preyed upon by a wide variety of predators

Adult Size: about seven to 10 inches

Temperature: -10F to 113F

Order: Strigiformes

Conservation Status: Least Concern

Scientific Name: Athene cunicularia