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length 18-26cm or 8.5-11in. Wing span 92cm or 39in. This heavily
spotted owl had large yellow eyes and no ear tufts. Noted for its long
legs, this bird is unique in that it nests underground rather than
above. It often uses old ground squirrel or badger burrows but will dig
its own burrow if necessary. Prefers hot arid regions where it often
nests in colonies. Found on Vancouver Island and the lower mainland in
small numbers. These owls will migrate far south in search of warm
weather during the winter months. Will often hover over suspected prey.
Diet consists of a variety of rodents, insects, song birds and
reptiles. When alarmed or threatened, the birds will scream, rattle,
giggle and buzz. Young have buffy bodies and fewer white spots. |
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