Typical Owls

Northern Saw-whet Owl, Aegolius acadicus

Family Strigidae (Typical Owls)

Size: 8"

Season: Year-round

Habitat: Coniferous or mixed woodlands

The northern saw-whet owl is a very small, compact owl with a big head, large yellow-orange eyes, and a very short tail. Adults are brown above, with spotting along the scapulars and wing coverts. Underparts are white, with thick brown streaking across the breast and sides. The facial disk lacks an obvious dark border, and the bill is black. Juveniles are blackish brown above and plain rufous below, with a distinct white patch on the forehead. Saw-whet owls stay hidden in trees by day and forage during the night for small rodents. The voice is a repeating series of short, high hoo notes. The adult is illustrated.