Young burrowing owls vulnerable as nesting season ends

Mid to late July is an important time in the lifecycle of burrowing owls as nesting season is ending and young owls are starting to explore the world on their own for the first time. 

However, it is a particularly dangerous time for the endangered species as the young owls are still learning and can face a number of dangers. 

“Of course, like any youngster, everything is new to them. They’re learning and sometimes, not being aware of the risks that they’re facing. Sometimes it’s a little bit of brawn over brain when it comes to the babies,” said Lori Johnson, owl coordinator at the Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretative Centre here in Moose Jaw. 

Nature Saskatchewan says that juvenile owls will often forage along roadsides, so motorists are asked to slow down and keep an eye out for burrowing owls as they can be easy to miss. Standing at about nine inches tall, they are about the same size as a robin. 

Johnson added that, if you happen to see a burrowing owl out at this time, let them explore and watch from a safe distance. 

“When you’re out and about, give them their space. They’re starting to explore their surroundings. It ensures their protection as well as our safety,” she said. 

A seven to 10-day-old burrowing owlet from a previous nest at the Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretive Centre. (Photo courtesy: Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretive Centre)

Nature Saskatchewan has a voluntary stewardship program to monitor the population of burrowing owls in the wild. During the 2022 count, Nature Saskatchewan found 33 pairs of burrowing owls. While it’s hard to get concrete numbers, its estimated there are 500 to 800 pairs in Canada. 

Over at the Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretive Centre, they continue their conservation work when it comes to owls. Johnson said they had two owlets born this year although they are a little bit behind the wild owls as they aren’t ready to leave the nest yet. 

“Our little family expanded, and we’ve been seeing lots of visitors this year. It’s been going well,” Johnson said. 

You can find out more about burrowing owls on the Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretive Centre’s website. 

If you think you’ve spotted a burrowing owl, you can report it to Nature Saskatchewan’s toll-free “Hoot” line at 1-800-667-HOOT (4668) or email obo@naturesask.ca