Typical Owls

Boreal Owl, Aegolius funereus

Family Strigidae (Typical Owls)

Size: 10"

Season: Winter

Habitat: Mixed forests

The boreal owl is a small owl of northern latitudes with a relatively large, flattish head and small, yellow eyes. The white facial disk is framed by black, and the forehead is black with extensive white dotting. The body is brownish with white spotting above and white streaked with brown below. Active at dusk or night, the boreal owl attacks small mammals or insects by flying down from a perch, and voices a series of low-pitched, staccato toots, sometimes of extended duration. Its small size, nocturnal nature, and preference for wooded areas often make this owl difficult to spot. The adult is illustrated.