Northern hawk-owl, Canada

Northern hawk-owl, Canada

Meet the northern hawk-owl—featured in today's image—a striking bird that is as fierce as it sounds! This medium-sized owl is found in the boreal forests of North America and Europe. Active only during the day, it has exceptional hearing and can plunge into the snow to capture rodents. With its long, tapered tail and a small head resembling a hawk, the northern hawk-owl is a striking sight. Known for its high-pitched, sharp call, the owl's vocalisations are simple yet distinctive. It often emits a series of whistling hoots, making it stand out among its owl relatives.

During the breeding season, they nest in tree cavities, laying about 3 to 11 eggs. Both parents raise the chicks, with the male providing food while the female stays close to the nest. These owls don’t migrate, so they can be spotted year-round. However, in the winter they may move south from Canada into the northern United States to find food when it is scarce in their regular territory.