Who’s that? It’s the Florida burrowing owl! A unique creature native to Florida, here’s what to know about the burrowing owl. 

What’s Going On?

The burrowing owl, one of the smallest in Florida, lives in open, sandy fields throughout the peninsular region of the state. It stands at around nine inches tall, has sandy brown feathers, and bright yellow eyes. 

Named after its nesting behavior, burrowing owls dig down into the ground to nest, returning to their burrows year after year during breeding season. Baby burrowing owls stay in the burrow for about two weeks after they hatch and learn to fly at four weeks old. 

 Although they can fly, the burrowing owl lives mostly on the ground and has larger than average legs so it can see farther from its vantage point near its burrow.  

Why It Matters 

The main threat to the burrowing owl, designated in Florida as a state threatened species, is habitat loss. 

Construction activities, loss of prairie land to development like golf courses and residential areas, and harassment from humans and domesticated animals all imperil the safety of burrowing owls. 

What You Can Do 

• As a state-threatened species, it is against the law to harass a burrowing owl, so be sure to give it lots of space if you see one. 
• If the owls see you and bob their heads, make noises or fly around you, then you’re probably too close! 
• Be sure to keep any pets on a leash when taking them for a walk to prevent them from harassing an owl.  
• You can report harassment of burrowing owls or burrowing owl nests at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s number 1-888-404-FWCC. 

Information from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, University of Florida IFAS, the City of Sunrise, Florida, and the National Audubon Society.