Here is the same photo that was posted earlier this morning… this time with both owls pointed out. The small, brown Northern Saw-whet Owl is tucked away on the left side of the picture, whereas the Boreal Owl is sleeping away on the right. Kudos to everyone that spotted these owls. I am thankful and very privileged to live in such a beautiful part of the northwoods that owls regularly inhibit. People sometimes ask me how I come across owls on a regular basis; a good portion of the “luck” of finding owls is simply living in an area where owls tend to be found in greater numbers, but there is more to observing owls than that.
Much of the trick for looking for owls (with success) is knowing some history and unique traits about each owl species. Certain owl species (like Boreal Owls) tend to perch along the length of branches, whereas Northern Saw-whet Owls tend to perch closer to the trunk. Some owls are diurnal (awake during the daytime) like the Northern Hawk-Owl, whereas some are crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk) like the Great Gray Owl. Many owls are nocturnal, like the Barred Owl. Each owl needs a certain type of habitat, or blend of habitats, in order to call the area its home.
Part of the experience of looking for owls is connecting with these birds on a special level, even before looking for them. Â With some persistence, some knowledge about the owls, and always giving the owls their space, your experience of enjoying owls will produce many wonderful memories. Every owl that I have encountered on my own as well as while leading birding trips, have been treated with the bird’s well-being and the respect for their comfort zones being the #1 priority of the owl-viewing experience. The views of owls have been breathtaking! Cheers!