The heavy snowfall in Nova Scotia this winter is causing the province’s smallest owls to venture into more populated areas in search of food. The Northern saw-whet owl, smaller than a robin, is struggling to hunt its usual prey of mice, voles, and shrews due to the snow cover, according to Randy Lauff, a biology instructor at St. Francis Xavier University specializing in boreal and Northern saw-whet owls.
Lauff emphasizes that owls, known for their keen eyesight and exceptional hearing, possess unique predatory skills. While larger owls can locate rodents beneath thick snow and use their size and strength to catch them accurately, the tiny saw-whet owls face challenges due to their small size.
As a result of the difficulty in hunting, saw-whet owls are being increasingly sighted in both rural and urban areas with bird feeders this winter, where they are not after the seeds but the mice and small birds attracted to the feeders.
Hatfield Farm in Hammonds Plains, N.S., recently had a rare visit from a saw-whet owl, which sought shelter in one of the barns before eventually moving on. Owner Cherie Hatfield mentioned that the owl might have been hunting for small prey around the barn due to the snowy conditions forcing predators to seek food sources.
Lauff advises Nova Scotians who encounter saw-whet owls in their yards to give the birds space and avoid causing stress. He explains that disturbances, such as bright lights or human interactions, can hinder the owls’ hunting efforts, crucial for their survival, especially during the night.
Snow cover during the winter can be both advantageous and challenging for birds of prey. While it makes prey more visible against the white background, icy crusts can make it harder for them to access food. Hope Swinemar, founder of wildlife rescue center Hope for Wildlife in Seaforth, N.S., notes that harsh winters can lead to increased starvation among birds of prey, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting their natural hunting behaviors.
Despite the challenges posed by winter weather, Swinemar highlights that wildlife, including birds and animals, are resilient and have adapted to survive in varying conditions. She underscores the importance of allowing these creatures to navigate their environment without unnecessary disturbances.
In conclusion, the snowy winter in Nova Scotia has impacted the hunting patterns of saw-whet owls, prompting them to venture into more human-populated areas in search of food. It is crucial for residents to respect these creatures’ space and natural behaviors to ensure their survival during the challenging winter months.
