About the Burrowing Owl
The Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) is a species documented in our database. Learn more about this species through the information below.
Conservation Status
Burrowing Owl is currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
Population Trend
declining
Current Threats
- Habitat loss and fragmentation
- Human disturbance
- Climate change
Photo Gallery
4 photos available
Geographic Distribution
Distribution by Region
Western North America
Continent: North America
Country: United States, Canada
Region: Western provinces and states
Southwestern United States
Continent: North America
Country: United States
Region: Arizona, California, New Mexico, Texas
Mexico
Continent: North America
Country: Mexico
Region: Northern states
Distribution Overview
The Burrowing Owl is a migratory species that breeds in western North America and winters in southwestern United States and Mexico.
Quick Facts
- Size
- 23 - 28 cm
- Weight
- 170 - 250 g
- Lifespan
- up to 10-15 years years
- Diet
- Small mammalsInsectsReptilesAmphibians
Habitat
GrasslandsPrairiesDesertsOpen woodlands
Behavior
- Forages for small mammals, insects, and reptiles on the ground
- Uses burrows as nests and shelters
- Monogamous, with pairs forming during breeding season
- Both parents incubate eggs and care for young