Surnia ulula
The Northern Hawk-Owl (Surnia ulula) is a captivating diurnal raptor, uniquely blending the sharp-eyed hunting prowess of a hawk with the characteristic silent flight and striking facial features of an owl. Averaging 35-43 cm (14-17 in) in length with a wingspan of 69-82 cm (27-32 in) and weighing 215-370 g (7.6-13 oz), this medium-sized owl presents a lean, long-tailed profile. Its plumage is predominantly brown-barred white on the underparts, with a dark brown back spotted white, and a dist...
Primarily inhabiting the open boreal forests, taiga, and mixed woodlands of the Northern Hemisphere, often favoring areas with clearings, burns, or recent logging. It typically occurs at low to moderate elevations.
Feeds primarily on small mammals, especially voles and lemmings, supplemented by small to medium-sized birds, shrews, and insects during summer months. It typically hunts from an elevated perch, striking prey swiftly on the ground.
Unlike most owls, the Northern Hawk-Owl is predominantly diurnal and crepuscular, actively hunting throughout the day, especially when prey is abundant. Its foraging strategy involves perching on exposed snags or treetops, scanning for prey, then swooping down with a swift, direct flight, often h...
The Northern Hawk-Owl boasts a circumpolar breeding range across the boreal forests of North America and Eurasia. In North America, it breeds throughout Alaska, much of Canada, and sporadically in the northern United States, including northern Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Maine, New York, and ...
Least Concern
- The Northern Hawk-Owl is one of the few owl species that hunts predominantly during the day, much like a hawk, hence its common name. - Its extremely long tail, relative to other owls, aids in agile flight through dense forests and contributes to its hawk-like silhouette. - In years when vole p...