Common name: Short-earred owl
Scientific name: Asio flammeus flammeus
Identifying characteristics:
A diurnal owl about the size of a large crow, this owl is about 10 ounces and 15 inches in length. Short ear tufts are seldom raised, even wnen perched. Coloration includes a brown phase and a gray phase. each feather, except on the rump, has a blackish-brown center stripe, heaviest on the feathers of the shoulders, nape, back, and breast. Stripes on the belly and sides are lighter and disappear on the underside. Facial disk coloration is a striking orange brown with dark eye circles.
Range:
Appears at least to some extent in most of North America.
Habitat:
Primarily a bird of marshland and deep grass fields, it is often found in open woodlands, desert areas, open fields, swamps, croplands or orchards, a most varied habitat choice. It may roost on the ground, or in low brush.
Nesting:
The nest is usually on the ground in no more than a slight depression, carelessly lined with grasses and feathers. Occasionally it will nest in a low bush. Underground nesting in an abandoned mammal burrow is not too uncommon. Five to seven eggs constitute a clutch.
Feeding habits:
The favorite food of Short-Earred Owls is mice and voles, though when young are in the nest, song and game birds add to the diet.
Conservation status:
Reduced in numbers, but not yet threatened.
