The heavy snowfall in Nova Scotia this winter is forcing some of the smallest owls in the province to venture into more human-inhabited regions in search of food. Due to the snow cover, the diminutive Northern saw-whet owl, smaller than a robin, is experiencing challenges in hunting its usual prey of mice, voles, and shrews. Randy Lauff, a biology professor at St. Francis Xavier University specializing in boreal and Northern saw-whet owls, explains that owls, known for their keen eyesight and exceptional hearing, possess unique predatory capabilities.
While larger owls can detect rodents moving beneath thick snow layers and use their size and strength to capture prey with precision, the smaller saw-whet owls struggle to do so. Consequently, these owls are being increasingly sighted this winter in rural and urban environments with bird feeders, not for the seeds but for the mice and small birds attracted to them.
Hatfield Farm in Hammonds Plains, N.S., recently had a rare sighting of a saw-whet owl on its premises, seeking potential prey like “small critters” around the barn due to the snow cover. Cherie Hatfield, the owner, emphasized the impact of heavy snow on predator behavior during winter survival.
Lauff advises people in Nova Scotia who encounter saw-whet owls in their yards to give the birds space and avoid causing stress. He highlights the importance of minimizing disturbances to help the owls in their quest for food, especially during the crucial hunting period after dusk.
Hope Swinemar, founder of wildlife rescue center Hope for Wildlife in Seaforth, N.S., mentions the mixed effects of snow cover on birds of prey, noting that while it aids in prey visibility, harsh winter conditions can lead to challenges in accessing food. Swinemar underscores the resilience of wildlife during challenging weather conditions, emphasizing their ability to adapt and endure.
In summary, the snowy conditions in Nova Scotia are affecting the hunting patterns of saw-whet owls, prompting them to venture closer to human settlements in search of sustenance. The community is urged to respect these owls’ space and needs during the winter months to ensure their well-being and survival.