With summer’s arrival, young burrowing owls are leaving their nests across the prairies to forage independently after weeks of parental care. These juvenile owls are honing their hunting and flying skills, often venturing to nearby burrows.

Grace Pidborchynski, coordinator of Operation Burrowing Owl at Nature Saskatchewan, notes that warmer road surfaces at dusk attract insects and rodents, drawing owls to roadsides. This increases the risk of vehicle collisions, as owls fly low while searching for prey. Motorists are urged to be vigilant on highways and grid roads, especially near known or potential nesting sites, to avoid collisions and protect these endangered birds.

The burrowing owl population has been declining since the mid-80s, making each juvenile’s survival crucial for the species’ growth. Burrowing owls are about nine inches tall, with mottled brown and white feathers, bushy white eyebrows, and long featherless legs. They nest in native prairie, often using abandoned burrows excavated by badgers or ground squirrels.

Nature Saskatchewan has been conserving burrowing owls since 1987, partnering with stewards across southern and central Saskatchewan. To report owl sightings, call the Hoot Line at 1-800-667-HOOT (4668) or email [email protected], aiding in conservation efforts.