Copyright © 1995, Don Baccus
All images copyright © 1995, Don Baccus
This small owl is uncommmon and declining in our area. Despite its name, it doesn't dig a burrow but rather occupies old badger or ground squirrel burrows. Its charming habits include mimicing the sound of a rattlesnake when disturbed in their burrow. The easiest way to find them is to ask other birders, due to their scarcity.
This owl is much smaller than the average person imagines, and is sensitive to approach, so care must be taken. My best photographs have come from owls occupying burrows or culverts next to roads. Some individuals - particularly juveniles - are quite tolerant of being photographed from a car, while others freak out. Clearly, leave the intolerant individuals in peace, and concentrate your efforts on those which, for whatever reason, sit quietly for the photographer.
Most sightings are on BLM or private land near the north end of the Malheur Refug. In recent years, the road to OO Ranch has been quite reliable.
