Summary:
– The eastern screech owl makes an array of sounds, including screeching, to defend its nest.
– Burrowing owls nest underground, using burrows left by other species.
– Spectacled owls have white markings around their eyes, resembling spectacles.
– The great horned owl has tufts of feathers on its head, which help with camouflage.
– Barred owls have dark brown eyes and are common in North America.
Did who know? The Zoo supports five owl species at the Bird House! For we’re diving into what makes each one unique!
🦉 What’s in a name? The eastern screech owl does screech! It sounds like whinnies and trills but screeches when defending their nest. The species has a large range, including Missouri and many neighboring states.
When you think of an owl, you might envision a wise creature with hoots that echo through the night. But did you know that not all owls hoot? Take the eastern screech owl, for example. This tiny yet mighty bird may not have the booming hoots of its relatives, but it surely knows how to make some noise!
The eastern screech owl is aptly named for the variety of sounds it produces, including screeches, whinnies, and trills. These calls serve various purposes, from communication with other owls to defending their nests from intruders. When threatened, the eastern screech owl unleashes a high-pitched screech that can send shivers down your spine.
Not only is its vocal repertoire fascinating, but its range is also quite impressive. The eastern screech owl inhabits a vast area that includes all of Missouri and stretches into several neighboring states. So next time you find yourself in the woods of Missouri, keep your ears perked for the unique calls of the eastern screech owl!
🦉 Can I borrow that burrow? Unlike other owls, the burrowing owl nests underground. It often will use the burrows left over from other species to save time and valuable energy. Females can lay up to 12 eggs per clutch.
Who knew that owls could be expert house hunters? While most owls prefer treetop nests, the burrowing owl likes to break the mold by nesting underground. You heard that right — these adorable creatures turn to the underground world for shelter and protection.
But how do burrowing owls find their underground abodes? It turns out they are quite resourceful! Burrowing owls often repurpose burrows created by other animals, such as prairie dogs or ground squirrels. By utilizing these pre-dug tunnels, burrowing owls save themselves the effort and energy of digging their nests.
And their resourcefulness doesn’t end there. Burrowing owls decorate the entrances of their burrows with an array of items like feathers, bones, and even dung. It’s like their little showcase, giving passersby a glimpse into their quirky and creative minds.
When it comes to family planning, burrowing owls also know how to make the most of their underground homes. Female burrowing owls can lay up to 12 eggs in a single clutch, ensuring a bustling owl community in the depths beneath the earth. Who needs a treetop view when you have a cozy underground burrow?
🦉 A real spectacle! The spectacled owl gains its name from markings around its face. Spectacled owls have white markings around their eyes, which give the appearance of spectacles.
Fashionistas of the owl world gather around! If you thought owls were all about feathers and flight, think again. The spectacled owl takes fashion to new heights with its distinctive facial markings.
Imagine an owl with white “eyeglasses” framing its eyes, giving it the appearance of a wise scholar ready to impart knowledge. This stunning species, aptly named the spectacled owl, features beautiful white markings around its eyes that resemble spectacles.
While some might assume these markings serve a practical purpose like camouflage, they are more likely used to communicate within the owl community. These markings may help other owls recognize individuals or convey social signals like humans use accessories to express their personality and status.
So, if you ever come face to face with a spectacled owl, take a moment to appreciate its fashionable style and the intriguing message it may be conveying through its “spectacles.”
🦉 The great horned owl is named after the tufts of feathers on its head. These are not horns. You may be surprised to learn they are not ears, either! The reason for the tufts is unknown, although they help the owls camouflage in trees. The tall feathers make this species easy to identify.
Picture an owl with great horns, and what comes to mind? A majestic creature with formidable horns atop its head, right? Prepare to be amazed because the great horned owl is not as horned as you might think!
Despite its name, the great horned owl doesn’t possess horns. Those ear-like tufts of feathers on its head are often mistaken for horns, but they serve a different purpose altogether. The true function of these tufts remains somewhat of a mystery, but researchers speculate their role in communication, expression, or camouflage.
That’s right — the great horned owl has a knack for blending into its natural habitat, including trees. The tall feathers on its head help break up its outline, making it harder for prey or predators to spot this formidable hunter. So, next time you’re out on a nature walk, watch for the unmistakable silhouette of the great horned owl, the true master of disguise.
🦉 Beautiful, bar none! Barred owls are some of the most common in North America and can be identified by their dark (and dazzling) brown eyes. Most owls have yellow eyes. This species lives throughout Canada and the United States. There is even a population in Mexico!
In a land full of owls, the barred owl reigns supreme as one of North America’s most widespread and recognizable species. The barred owl is a true natural beauty known for its striking appearance and captivating eyes.
While many owls have distinctive yellow eyes, the barred owl deviates from the norm with its captivating deep brown eyes. These mesmerizing orbs make it stand out in a crowd of feathered friends, capturing the attention of all who encounter it.
But what sets the barred owl apart from the rest of the North American owl population? These stunning birds can be found throughout Canada and the United States. You might even spot a lucky few in the forests of Mexico! Their adaptability to various habitats, from dense forests to suburban areas, has contributed to their widespread presence.
So, keep your eyes peeled for the distinctive brown-eyed beauty of the barred owl on your next venture into the North American wilderness. Its elegance and widespread presence will leave you in awe of nature’s creations.
As we have uncovered the unique qualities of these five owl species, it becomes increasingly clear that the world of owls is diverse and filled with wonder. From the screeches of the eastern screech owl to the fashionable “eyeglasses” of the spectacled owl, each species brings its charm and intrigue.
So, the next time you visit the Bird House at the Zoo, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and individuality of these magnificent birds. Marvel at their unique adaptations and embrace the awe-inspiring diversity of nature’s feathered gems. With their captivating behaviors, striking appearances, and intriguing habits, owls are a constant reminder of the boundless wonders that await in the animal kingdom.
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Source Description
Did who know? The Zoo supports five owl species at the Bird House! For we’re diving into what makes each one unique!
🦉 What’s in a name? The eastern screech owl does screech! It sounds like whinnies and trills but screeches when defending their nest. The species has a large range, including Missouri and many neighboring states.
🦉 Can I borrow that burrow? Unlike other owls, the burrowing owl nests underground. It often will use the burrows left over from other species to save time and valuable energy. Females can lay up to 12 eggs per clutch.
🦉 A real spectacle! The spectacled owl gains its name from markings around its face. Spectacled owls have white markings around their eyes, which give the appearance of spectacles.
🦉 The great horned owl is named after the tufts of feathers on its head. These are not horns. You may be surprised to learn they are not ears, either! The reason for the tufts is unknown, although they help the owls camouflage in trees. The tall feathers make this species easy to identify.
🦉 Beautiful, bar none! Barred owls are some of the most common in North America and can be identified by their dark (and dazzling) brown eyes. Most owls have yellow eyes. This species lives throughout Canada and the United States. There is even a population in Mexico!
