Young Prairie Bobbers Are Taking Flight

Regina, SK – July 25th, 2016 – The Burrowing Owl is reaching an important stage in its life cycle – the juveniles are now starting to leave the shelter of the burrow, and forage for themselves. The juvenile owls have been fed by the adults for many weeks, and they are now becoming independent. If you are out and about during late July, it is a good time to spot Burrowing Owls in rural Saskatchewan, but it is also a dangerous time for these inexperienced juvenile owls.

Just like teenagers, the young Burrowing Owls have to learn the way of the world, and that includes learning the way of the road. “The juveniles often forage in roadside ditches, where they find small invertebrates and rodents that tend to congregate at dusk,” explains Kaytlyn Burrows, Habitat Stewardship Coordinator. “But unfortunately, many of these young are killed by motorists whilst foraging along the sun-warmed road.”

The Burrowing Owl population has been steadily declining, making the survival of each and every juvenile owl critical for the ultimate survival and growth of the species. However, Kaytlyn Burrows says there are some things that we can do to help the juveniles survive this critical learning curve. “When motorists are driving in Burrowing Owl habitat, and especially near known nest sites, it’s important that they take a few extra minutes and slow down. This will reduce the risk of owl-vehicle collisions.” The owls are often found nesting in native prairie that has been well grazed by cattle, as this shorter grass allows them to spot predators. They are often seen standing on their burrow, on nearby fence posts, or foraging in the ditches.

To identify a Burrowing Owl, there are some key features to watch for. Look for mottled brown and white feathers, white ‘eyebrows’, and long featherless legs that look like ‘stilts’. Don’t be fooled by its small size – it is only 9 inches tall (about the size of a Meadowlark). The Burrowing Owl’s burrow is not dug by the owl itself; rather, they use abandoned burrows dug by badgers, ground squirrels, and other burrowing mammals.

Nature Saskatchewan has been involved with the protection and conservation of the Burrowing Owl for almost 30 years, but its success would not have been possible without the help of landowners, land managers, and the public. Operation Burrowing Owl works with landowners across southern Saskatchewan, and signs voluntary agreements in an effort to preserve the rapidly disappearing habitat that the species needs. The program works alongside landowner practices, and the land continues to be used used in a way that benefits the landowner. “If you see a Burrowing Owl, please give us a call on our toll-free Hoot Line, at 1-800-667-HOOT (4668),” Burrows mentions. “You will be helping to monitor the population and aid with conservation efforts.” Landowner information is never shared without permission.

For further information please contact Nature Saskatchewan:
Kaytlyn Burrows (306) 780-9833, [email protected]
Habitat Stewardship Coordinator
Rebecca Magnus (306) 780-9270, [email protected]
Acting Species at Risk Manager