Short-eared Owls were a common nesting species in Iowa in pioneer days but in recent decades have almost disappeared as a nesting species. It still occurs in the state during migration and in some years may winter here as well. The Short-eared Owl is a grassland species and the loss of Iowa’s native prairies is the major reason for its disappearance as a nesting species. It is listed as endangered in Iowa mainly because of its rarity as a nesting species. Short-eared Owls are somewhat diurnal in their habits than most owls and may be seen foraging during the daytime, flying low and almost batlike low over the ground. They often emerge from their daytime roosts just before sundown and can be seen then as they begin to forage.
|
|
indicates a designated IBA.