Part I – Burrowing Owls
Burrowing Owls are one of the smallest owls of the 171 species known world-wide. Adults will weigh between 5 – 8.5 ounces with a wing span up to 21″. They are the only owl that lives underground. Florida has a large population of these little owls. Although there are also Burrowing Owls in the western states, the species in Florida tends to be a little smaller.
I’ve had a lot of fun over the past 10 years photographing these very personable birds. I’ve included some of my favorite images in this post. I hope you will enjoy them!
Adults
The owls in the Cape Coral and Marco Island areas of Florida have become very used to humans and urban life building their underground nests in vacant lots and fields, adjacent to public buildings and homes, and pretty much anywhere close to a food source.
Since 2017 when they were declared by the state of Florida to be a threatened species, and with the help of volunteers and conservationists they have been protected. As burrows are discovered, the area is roped off and a perch is installed. Apparently, the little birds have adapted well to urban life as their numbers are increasing.
Photographers being respectful and at a distance have no problem finding subjects to photograph. The owl’s big eyes only move with a turn of the head so some of their expressions can be quite amusing.
(Click on an image for a larger version)
As in many bird species the female is somewhat larger than the male. I have a hard time telling them apart unless they’re close to each other. These images make them appear to be larger than they are, but they could easily be held in your hand.
Chicks
The chicks are born in the underground burrow and both parents are responsible for their care and feeding. At around 10 days old they will begin to venture outside ready to quickly scurry back down under at a sign of trouble. Keeping a good distance and being very still I have been able to get shots of several families over the years.
These chicks are a little older, some are almost ready to fly and are trying out their wings. You can see that as they mature their eyes start to change from dark brown to the brilliant yellow of an adult.
I’ve enjoyed sharing these images and look forward to your comments and feedback. Part II of Owls will spotlight images of Snowy Owls. To be notified when it is posted just sign up at the top of this post.
Thanks for joining me, Cheryl
Sandy
1 Apr 2022I love each of the owl photographs. I’m glad you had the patience and respect needed to take such beautiful photographs that highlight their stories. My college mascot was the owl.
Cheryl Schneider
1 Apr 2022Thank you, Sandy! There is something very appealing about owls. 😊
Sheila Reno
1 Apr 2022As you know, Cheryl, I am a #1 FAN of all your work but the owl is an obsession with me and these photos have made me so appreciate your talent and focus. Thank you so much for the comments too bc they feed my curiosity ! You are the best ❤💯💥💥💥
Cheryl Schneider
2 Apr 2022I always appreciate your comments, Sheila! And, thank you for suggesting a post on owls. I’ve really had fun putting them together.
Diane Evans
2 Apr 2022I’m on several owl sites and really enjoying all the species. Your photos are absolutely beautiful! I’m very impressed with the young ones‼️Keep instructing us on my favorite bird-the owl🥰
Cheryl Schneider
2 Apr 2022Thanks so much, Diane! The young ones are just so cute. I’m off to photograph more of these little guys this morning. Hopefully I’ll find some more chicks.
Hope himel
5 Apr 2022They’re so adorable. Remind me of my favorite book, “Wesley the Owl” that I gave you. Remember?!! Read it yet?🥺
Cheryl Schneider
6 Apr 2022Thank you! I do remember. That’s why I take so many pictures of owls. 🙂
Sylvia
6 Apr 2022I can feel the emotions and love the expressions. Amazing shots and thank you for comments and background info on these amazing owls.
Cheryl Schneider
6 Apr 2022Thank you, Sylvia! I’m actually in Florida now photographing the owls. I really appreciate your comments. It makes me feel good to know that I have been able to give you a sense of these little guys through my images. 🙂