Aegolius funereus
The Boreal Owl, *Aegolius funereus*, is a small, highly cryptic owl of the northern forests, renowned for its 'surprised' facial expression. Measuring approximately 22-27 cm (9-11 inches) in length with a wingspan of 50-62 cm (20-24 inches) and weighing 90-210 grams, it sports a mottled brown and white plumage, bright yellow eyes, a pale facial disc bordered by dark streaking, and small white spots on its crown and back. These distinctive field marks, combined with its relatively small size a...
Primarily inhabits dense coniferous and mixed boreal forests, preferring mature stands with abundant tree cavities for nesting. Found from sea level to the tree line in mountainous regions.
Feeds predominantly on small mammals, especially voles, shrews, and mice, which it can detect under snow by sound. Also takes small birds and insects opportunistically.
Strictly nocturnal, the Boreal Owl becomes active at dusk, hunting through the night and retreating to dense conifer cover or tree cavities to roost during the day. Its primary foraging strategy is a 'sit-and-wait' approach, perching silently on a branch and diving down to capture prey, often plu...
The Boreal Owl has a circumboreal distribution, spanning the northern parts of North America and Eurasia. In North America, its breeding range extends across Alaska, much of Canada, and into the northern contiguous United States, particularly in the Rocky Mountains (south to New Mexico and Arizon...
Least Concern
- The name 'Boreal' refers to its northern distribution, thriving in the cold, dense forests of high latitudes. - Its scientific name, *funereus*, is Latin for 'funereal' or 'mournful', likely referring to its quiet, somewhat solemn nature and crepuscular habits. - Boreal Owls possess asymmetrica...