Tiny Owls Struggle as Winter Snow Bites Deep

The persistent winter snow in Nova Scotia is presenting a significant challenge for the region's Northern saw-whet owls. These small birds, typically smaller than a robin, are finding it difficult to hunt their preferred prey, such as mice and voles, due to the deep snow cover.

Consequently, these owls have been observed more frequently in rural and urban settings, often near bird feeders. While they are not interested in the seeds, the presence of mice and small birds drawn to these feeders offers a potential food source. This unusual proximity to human settlements is a sign of their struggle to find sustenance.

Biologists emphasize that while larger owls can often hear and access rodents beneath considerable snow, saw-whets lack the size and strength for such feats. They advise Nova Scotians who encounter a saw-whet owl to admire it briefly and take a photo if desired, but to maintain distance and avoid stressing the bird.

Organizations have even restricted public postings of saw-whet owl sightings on social media to prevent disturbances. The owls are nocturnal and can become exhausted and stressed by human activity, which detracts from their crucial hunting time, especially after dusk when they haven't eaten since the previous night.