More Information
Gemini:
Tiny Titan of the Night
Don't let its diminutive size fool you. The Northern Saw-whet Owl, a North American resident, packs a powerful punch in a pint-sized package. This feathered dynamo holds the title of smallest owl across the continent, barely bigger than a robin! Its plumage is a beautiful tapestry of browns and whites, with delicate streaks accenting its heart-shaped face.
A Master of the Moonlight
Truly nocturnal, the Northern Saw-whet Owl waits for the cloak of darkness to unfurl before springing into action. With the night sky as its canvas, it swoops silently through the trees, its keen yellow eyes and exceptional hearing pinpointing unsuspecting prey. Mice, voles, and other small mammals tremble at the sound of its shrill call, a haunting echo in the stillness of the night.
A Forest Favorite
Despite its impressive hunting prowess, the Northern Saw-whet Owl remains a common sight, gracing forests with its presence. Thankfully, its population is stable, and it isn't considered endangered. So, the next time you're out on a nighttime adventure, keep your ears peeled for its distinctive call. You might just catch a glimpse of this tiny titan, a master of the moonlit hours.
Wikipedia:
The northern saw-whet owl (Aegolius acadicus) is a species of small owl in the family Strigidae. The species is native to North America. Saw-whet owls of the genus Aegolius are some of the smallest owl species in North America. They can be found in dense thickets, often at eye level, although they can also be found some 20 ft (6.1 m) up. Saw-whets are often in danger of being preyed upon by larger birds of prey. The northern saw-whet owl is a migratory bird without any strict pattern.
All About Birds:
Basic Description
A tiny owl with a catlike face, oversized head, and bright yellow eyes, the Northern Saw-whet Owl is practically bursting with attitude. Where mice and other small mammals are concerned this fierce, silent owl is anything but cute. One of the most common owls in forests across northern North America (and across the U.S. in winter), saw-whets are highly nocturnal and seldom seen. Their high-pitched too-too-too call is a common evening sound in evergreen mountain forests from January through May.
Find This Bird
It’s hard to see a Northern Saw-whet Owl, but you may hear them on quiet nights from January to May in forests of northern and western North America. Listen for a sharp, high, repeated too-too-too call. During the day these small, hard-to-find owls roost silently in dense conifers. Your best chance of seeing them is to pay attention to small songbirds—if they discover a roosting saw-whet, they’re likely to kick up a racket, calling and flying at the owl until it moves on.