Northern Saw-whet Owl
Ohio's most secretive owl
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The Northern saw-whet owl is a small owl species that is widespread across North America. This owl species is a silent hunter that feeds on small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects at night by flying silently and using incredible eyesight and hearing to pinpoint prey. During the breeding season, the male will sing to defend his territory and attract females. These owls prefer to nest in tree cavities and will lay five to six eggs at a time. Since they are so elusive, very little is known about the Ohio population, and many scientists are conducting research to learn more about their migratory habits.
On Kelly's Island in the middle of Lake Erie, researchers get an early start to their morning by opening up mist nets (nets used to catch birds), to capture migrating male Northern saw-whet owls. Male songs are played over speakers to lure them in, and once captured, valuable data is collected by researchers. These owls will receive a band on their leg to identify individuals, which is helpful information for scientists to understand how many individuals there are in the population. This study has been going on for 50 years, and the information that is being learned is extremely helpful in informing wildlife managers on how to help protect this incredible animal.
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