The number of eggs she lays depends on the size of the prey population. Unlike most other owls, the Northern Hawk Owl does not fly on silent wings. [13][15], In Yukon, northern hawk-owl densities were estimated to be between zero and six pairs per 100 km2 (39 sq mi). While the female is busy taking excellent care of the eggs, the male isn't just sitting around. The owl may be affected by climate change. Its feathers are stiffer than nocturnal owls so when it flies its wings do make some noise. The northern hawk-owl is a partially diurnal hunter, although it has been recorded hunting at varying times and does not appear to have a preferred hunting time. These nesting sites are usually 2–10 m (6.6–32.8 ft) above ground for the North American S. u. caparoch and approximately 4–5 m (13–16 ft) above ground for the Eurasian S. u. ulala. [8] As these owls are considered a search-oriented species they likely do not stay put for long if the site is not producing prey. The Northern Hawk Owl is able to catch prey using only its hearing! A bird of boreal forests, the Northern Hawk Owl behaves like a hawk but looks like an owl. Being stared down by a Northern Hawk Owl is an experience you will never forget. [5] Winter habitat is usually the same as breeding habitat. Sometimes, their travels bring them to Idaho. In fact, the longer you look at a Northern Hawk Owl, the more you will realize how sweet-looking it is. Its back is mostly black with white mottling along the wings. The underbelly is generally wh… Unlike most other owls, the Northern Hawk Owl is quite content to go about its business of flying, hunting, and perching during daylight hours. The species is sometimes called simply the hawk owl; however, many species of owls in the genus Ninox are also called "hawk owls". The owl will then pounce feet first into the snow – very often hitting its target! Length: 14.5 – 17.5 in. [9] Despite these low densities, the North American population is thought to be fairly large given that they occur throughout the boreal forest. It is non-migratory and usually stays within its breeding range, though it sometimes irrupts southward. [3], Three subspecies exist across the northern holarctic. At about two weeks into the chicks' lives the female starts to leave the nest for long spans of time (5 hours or more). Both male and female have similar wingspans of about 45 cm (18 in). Boise, Idaho 83709, Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, New Year's Day, Easter, and Independence Day, tpf@peregrinefund.org Though generally this species is not considered to be migratory, individuals have been known to travel further south, particularly in winter, when food may be more scarce in their regular haunts. The Northern Hawk Owl feeds mostly on voles – a small rodent – and other small mammals (like mice and lemmings) and birds, including jays, ptarmigan (one of the favorite foods of the Gyrfalcon), robins, starlings, and even grouse. This gives it a nice view of its hunting grounds and all it needs to do is wait for unsuspecting prey to scurry or meander past. He must find enough food to feed himself and the female during this time! BIOMETRICS: Length: 36-39 cm Wingspan: 74-81 cm Weight: M : 270-315 g – F : 320-345 g. DESCRIPTION: Northern Hawk Owl is a medium-sized owl, a largely diurnal bird. Though we do not have a Northern Hawk Owl in our avian ambassador family, we do have a lovely Verreaux Eagle Owl as well as a Western and an Eastern Screech Owl. Northern Hawk Owl wingspan 42.5cm; Northern Hawk Owl male size 47.7; Northern Hawk Owl female size 42.4 ; The Northern Hawk Owl female weighs more than a male; The Northern Hawk Owl can produce 6-10 eggs; The Northern Hawk Owl is a chocolate brown with white dots on its back. (2008) The little owl : Conservation, ecology, and behavior of Athene noctua. If this is the case, some of these owls may travel to southern Canada or even as far south as the northern United States in search of prey. If you were to study this species' behavior and some of its traits in search of further clues, you might become even more confused. The female's call is usually less constant and more shrill. [4] The hawk-owl prefers open, forest-type environments when perching. [2], Male northern hawk-owls are generally 36–42.5 cm (14.2–16.7 in) long and weigh about 300 g (11 oz). Unlike most other owls, the Northern Hawk Owl does not fly on silent wings. This means she stays with them in the nest, often covering them with her body, to help keep them warm. The northern hawk-owl feeds on a variety of prey, which can include small rodents to mammals more robust in size, and a variety of birds,[8] a typical diet for many boreal owls. Both male and female have similar wingspans of about 45 cm (18 in). This occurs on average after their 21st day, and can begin as early as mid-June. After all, the Northern Hawk Owl has a long tail and pointed wings, like a falcon. There is also a touch table with owl feathers and other natural objects available for exploration. [8] The visitor center at our World Center for Birds of Prey includes owls among its avian ambassadors. The Northern Hawk Owl is distributed across much of the Northern Holarctic region – which is the area covered by the Nearctic and Palearctic regions combined. The northern hawk-owl will perch and scour the immediate area for prey. These environments include sphagnum bogs and partially deforested areas. The northern hawk-owl has also been known to nest on cliffsides. The preferred perching tree of the northern hawk-owl is the spruce tree. Status report on the northern hawk-owl, Surnia ulula. [3] Whether the bird resides in Eurasia or North America, the strategy is usually similar. But, unless you are a rodent, you have little to worry about. CLOSEST RELATIVE: Northern Pygmy Owl NORTHERN HAWK OWL SIZE: Height: Males 36-39 cm (14.1-15.3 in), Females 36-39 cm (14.1-15.3 in) Weight: Males 270-314g (9.5-11.0 oz), Females 320-345g (11.3-12.2 oz) Wingspan Both: 74-81cm (29.1-31.9 in) NORTHERN HAWK OWL RANGE: When you heard the name of this species, Northern Hawk Owl, for the first time, perhaps you asked yourself... well... is it a hawk or an owl? [7], The status and conservation of this species is uncertain. We also supply literature to researchers from our avian research library, which helps scientists around the world gather and share important information on raptor conservation. Like many owls, the Northern Hawk Owl has exceptional hearing. When distressed, its call sounds like a combination of a falcon cacking and tires squealing. Its feathers are stiffer than nocturnal owls so when it flies its wings do make some noise. WINGSPAN. It is a lovely combination of dark and light, which makes for some striking plumage patterns. Then, it might hover briefly above its prey, which it might locate with its sharp eyesight or excellent hearing, before dropping down to catch it. [10][12], Due to its low density occurrence, sporadic fluctuations, and remote breeding locations,[13] the northern hawk-owl is one of the least studied and poorly understood birds in North America. Its piercing yellow eyes, framed by a distinctive facial disk, make for one intimidating glare.