Burrowing Owls (2016)
There have been significant declines in the Burrowing Owl population in Yolo County in recent years. Sixty-three pairs of nesting owls were counted in 2007; only 15 pairs can be accounted for now according to the Burrowing Owl Preservation Society.
Burrowing Owls are small (about 9" tall) and most likely to be found on or close to the ground in open grassland or agricultural land. They often recycle the underground homes of ground squirrels and prairie dogs. Preferred sites have loose soil, are slightly elevated to avoid flooding, and have nearby lookouts such as dirt mounds, bushes, fence posts, or road signs.
These photos were taken over a couple of days in May. These owls reside alongside a quiet rural road just outside the city limits of Davis.
Read MoreBurrowing Owls are small (about 9" tall) and most likely to be found on or close to the ground in open grassland or agricultural land. They often recycle the underground homes of ground squirrels and prairie dogs. Preferred sites have loose soil, are slightly elevated to avoid flooding, and have nearby lookouts such as dirt mounds, bushes, fence posts, or road signs.
These photos were taken over a couple of days in May. These owls reside alongside a quiet rural road just outside the city limits of Davis.