Northern Saw Whet Owl

Description

Northern Saw Whet Owl can be printed on Fine Art Paper; Canvas; Metallic or Acrylic. Fine Art print is available in four materials in five sizes; Frames are available via special order; Prices are available on request; Shipping is added on top of special orders.

The Northern Saw Whet Owl

The Northern Saw Whet Owl is the second smallest owl in North America. The smallest is the Northern Pygmy Owl. This tiny owl has a catlike face; oversized head and big yellow eyes. These are some of the most common owls in North America but are hardly seen as they are highly nocturnal.

Naming

This owl was named because the call it makes sounds like a saw being sharpened on a whetting stone. 

Prey

The prey of the Northern Saw Whet Owl is usually mice. They love deer mice. They usually eat a whole mouse in two meals and they store food for the next meal.

Finding this bird

Due to the size of these birds Northern Saw Whet Owls are difficult to spot in the forest.  However they are easily found due to their calls at night. On quiet nights between January and May they call out. Listen for the sharp high repeated call that sounds like the too-too-too call.

Roosting

During the day these small owls roost silently in dense conifers or vegetation just above eye level. Your best chance of seeing them is to watch and listen to Songbirds mobbing them during the day.

Nesting

If you live near a wooded area consider putting up a nesting box to attract a breeding pair.