The recent heavy snowfall in Nova Scotia this winter is causing small owls in the region to venture into more populated areas in search of food. Specifically, the diminutive Northern saw-whet owl, smaller than a robin, is struggling to find its preferred diet of mice, voles, and shrews due to the snow cover, as explained by Randy Lauff, a biology instructor at St. Francis Xavier University who specializes in boreal and Northern saw-whet owls. Despite their excellent eyesight and exceptional hearing abilities, larger owls can still detect rodents beneath thick layers of snow and use their size and strength to capture prey with precision. In contrast, saw-whet owls face challenges due to their small size and are now being observed more frequently in rural and urban areas with bird feeders, not for the seeds but for the mice and small birds attracted to the feeders.
One such sighting occurred at Hatfield Farm in Hammonds Plains, N.S., where a saw-whet owl was spotted for the first time. The owl took refuge in one of the barns, perching in the rafters for a few days before moving on. Cherie Hatfield, the owner, speculated that the owl was hunting for small creatures around the barn, given the snow cover and the increased predator activity during winter. To avoid stressing the owl, the farm staff left the barn door open, allowing the owl to leave at its own pace.
Lauff advises Nova Scotians who encounter saw-whet owls to respect their space and minimize disturbances. He emphasized the importance of allowing the owls to hunt undisturbed, especially during dusk when they are most active. As a precautionary measure, the Nova Scotia Bird Society has prohibited members from posting photos of saw-whet owls to prevent unnecessary disruptions to the birds.
Snow cover during winter presents both advantages and challenges for birds of prey like owls. While the white snow aids in spotting dark-colored prey, such as mice, it can also create difficulties if the snow crusts over with ice, making it hard for the owls to access their food. Hope Swinemar, founder of Hope for Wildlife, mentioned that harsh winters can lead to higher starvation rates among birds of prey, causing them to expend more energy to find food. Despite potential challenges, Swinemar noted that wildlife, including owls, are resilient and adept at adapting to changing weather conditions.
In conclusion, the snowy winter in Nova Scotia is altering the foraging behavior of saw-whet owls, prompting them to venture into human-inhabited areas in search of sustenance. It is essential for people to respect these creatures’ space and allow them to hunt without disturbance to ensure their well-being during the winter months.