- Comments:
Burrowing owls are most commonly observed around prairie dog towns. Sometimes they
sit with just their head sticking out of a hole. They are active during the day and can be
seen perched on top of mounds or fence posts. Nests are located deep in abandoned prairie
dog burrows. Occasionally they use an abandoned hole dug by a badger or fox. When the 3-10
young are about 3 weeks old they venture out of the hole. They can be very entertaining to
watch as they hop and flutter about and bob their heads in a curious motion. They will
stare at prairie dogs while moving their heads in a circular motion, and sometimes turn
their heads completely upside down as if to get a unique perspective.
- Distribution:
The burrowing owl is found in open grasslands throughout the western half of the
United States. Another population occurs in southern Florida. In Kansas, burrowing owls
are summer residents and primarily found in the western third of the state.
- Food:
Insects and mice make up the bulk of the burrowing owl’s diet. They will
sometimes eat small birds, fish, lizards, snakes, frogs and toads.
Other Kansas Owls
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