This week I’d like to introduce you to the Northern Hawk Owl. These hearty birds overwinter in and around Yellowknife. They are not migratory so we are lucky to be able to enjoy their presence all year. These owls are often spotted during the day perched atop trees much like you see in these photos. If you spot a blob atop a tree, there’s a good chance it might be a Northern Hawk Owl.
Northern Hawk Owls have a distinct black edge to their facial disk and their eyes and beak are bright yellow. The black stripes and heavy brow make a distinct M shape on their face which often makes them look a bit cranky. They can be buff or grey in colour and have narrow stripes running horizontally across their chest. A banded tail and white spots that create bands on their wings are other markers that can help you ID them.
These owls have very good sight and are unusual amongst owls in that their ears are symmetrical; other owls have asymmetrical ear placement to improve their hearing. Even so, Northern Hawk Owls can hear prey under 12 inches of snow!
These owls live and breed in the boreal forest using old woodpecker holes or natural depressions in dead tree trunks. They are also known to nest on cliff edges or in old stick nests from time to time. Their nest sites are often near water.
The oldest recorded NHO was at least 5 years 11 months old when it was captured in Alberta.
This owl was unperturbed by my presence and after a few photos, I left him or her where she perched and headed back to town.
I hope you enjoyed this week’s story. See you next Sunday.