A common but rarely seen owl in southeast Alaska is the northern saw-whet owl. They are rarely seen because of their nocturnal behavior and preference for forested habitat. Researchers have discovered an interesting behavioral characteristic of these owls. During the first 18 or so days after the chicks hatch, the female takes care of "house keeping" while the male provides the meals. During this period nests are reportedly kept neat and clean. However, she splits after 10 to 12 days leaving the male as the sole provider for the family and house keeping falls to the wayside.
Kären spotted a distant bird flitting into a tree during a walk above Petersburg, Alaska's airport. Further investigation revealed this northern saw-whet owl on the hunt.
A common but rarely seen owl in southeast Alaska is the northern saw-whet owl. They are rarely seen because of their nocturnal behavior and preference for forested habitat. Researchers have discovered an interesting behavioral characteristic of these owls. During the first 18 or so days after the chicks hatch, the female takes care of "house keeping" while the male provides the meals. During this period nests are reportedly kept neat and clean. However, she splits after 10 to 12 days leaving the male as the sole provider for the family and house keeping falls to the wayside.
Kären spotted a distant bird flitting into a tree during a walk above Petersburg, Alaska's airport. Further investigation revealed this northern saw-whet owl on the hunt.