Burrowing Owls

This small owl may have gotten its scientific name from Athena the Greek goddess of wisdom, but the local crackers called them “howdy birds” because of their peculiar head bobbing that reminds one of a friendly greeting. These owls are unusual in that they prefer life underground rather than in trees, both nesting and sleeping in burrows and only occasionally perching on branches. If you want to see fledglings, the best time is from early May to early July. The young birds will often allow for a fairly close approach as they watch you with an almost comical intensity before scurrying back to the dark haven of their parent’s burrow.