Bird of the Day: August 2014

There are a number of reasons why I decided to take on this project. My first reason has to do with my interest in birds. This began shortly after moving to Victoria ten and a half years ago. With our house backing onto a wooded area, the chirping of birds is a familiar sound all year long. I often glance out the window to see birds of all forms in the yard throughout the day. Frequently I will pull out the Birds of Victoria or Birds of North America reference guides we have on hand. Unfortunately, the drawings in the first aren’t overly helpful for identification and the number of entries in the second is overwhelming. My second reason has to do with a photography course I took a number of years ago. Since that time I have been trying to think of a practical reason to buy a new camera. Taking pictures of birds requires a powerful zoom lens which my previous point-and-shoot camera could not accommodate. Perfect! My final reason was my desire to take on a new project to welcome in 2011. Hence, bird of the day was born.

Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Northern Saw-whet Owl

Aegolius acadicus

Appearance:
Small owl
No ear tufts
White facial disk, outlined in brown and white
Brownish head, including forehead, covered with white streaks
Brownish upper parts with white spots
White underparts, streaked with brown
Large, bright yellow-orange eyes
Black bill

Listen to its call.

The Northern Saw-whet Owl is about 7 inches in height, approximately the size of a Downy Woodpecker but with a much larger wingspan. Because of their small size, Saw-whet Owls often fall prey to larger owls and eagles. This little cutie was attacked by a Barred Owl from which he sustained injuries. Following his recovering at a wildlife hospital in December 2012, I had the privilege of releasing him back into the wild to continue his migration south.

Learn more about the Northern Saw-whet Owl.

Additional photos: