The Burrowing Owls of Cape Coral
The largest population of burrowing owls in the state of Florida is in Cape Coral, with an estimated 1000 nesting pairs. Unlike the Western species that live in abandoned prairie dog or ground squirrel burrows, these dig their own burrows. Their nests are fairly easy to find as a local conservation group marks off the areas with PVC pipe and erects perching posts. They are found in empty lots, fields and residential lots. The juvenile owls are now as large as their parents and have lost all or most of their down feathers. Check again next spring for the baby owlets! Click on an image to see full size.
The grasses here are hiding the burrow right behind this owl.
Watching warily, but not disturbed.
Shaking out its feathers.
Stretching its wings.
Stretching out a bit more, this one shows its wingspan.
Practicing her balance beam act, perhaps?
Stop and smell the daisies!
The PVC pipe is put up to define the nesting area and warn people to not approach too close. This photo shows off the unusually long legs of the burrowing owl.
Just a little wink.
These owls are so curious, and I'm always amazed at how far they can turn their heads!
And a look from this side!
Another curious owl. This was earlier in the day before the sun was up too high. Notice the size of the pupil here!
When startled, the owls bob their heads up and down.
Family portrait, or some of the family, anyway. This family has four young along with the parents. The others were at different nearby posts.
I love the way you captured the cocked head…what cuties they are.
Thanks, Sandy. They are very cute. Did you get to photography any when you were here?
I just love these little guys! And you captured them perfectly — thanks for sharing
Thanks, Pam. They are so much fun to watch! Thanks for checking them out here.
You’ve captured such great expressions and personality that you never notice when you pass by them. I even notices the tags on a couple of them. Always beautiful photos Cindy thanks for sharing them.
You are very welcome! Thanks for your kind words and visiting here.
What fun! Great burrowing owl photos! You must have shared quite a bit of time with them …. and I can just see you down on their level to get the views you got. These photos of your’s make me smile.