Latin Name

Athene cunicularia

History at CuriOdyssey

One of our owls was captive hatched at Utah’s Hogle Zoo and transferred to CuriOdyssey in September 2016. The second burrowing owl was captive hatched at Sacramento Zoo and transferred to us in October 2016.

Birth Date

One owl hatched in spring 2016 at Hogle Zoo and the second owl hatched April 2016 at Sacramento Zoo.

Fun Facts about Burrowing Owls

Burrowing owls usually nest in small colonies of up to 12 pairs. The nest is usually made in the abandoned dens of prairie dogs or other burrowing animals.

What do Burrowing Owls eat?

Mostly insects and small mammals; will occasionally eat small birds, small reptiles and amphibians. At CuriOdyssey they are served mice, rats, and chick/quail.

How long do Burrowing Owls live?

In the Wild: 6-8 years.
In Captivity: up to 11 years.

Where do Burrowing Owls live?

Burrowing Owl can be found in grasslands, deserts, agricultural areas and on western plains/prairies. The range in southwestern Canada and in most states west of the Mississippi River and down into Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America; another subspecies is found in Florida and the Caribbean

Are Burrowing Owls endangered?

Burrowing owls are species of concern in California because of habitat loss/degradation and pesticide use. They are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Considered endangered in Canada and threatened Mexico.