by Doug Becker
There are many interesting birds all around us that are seldom seen, or even known much about. A good example of this would be the tiny Northern Saw-whet Owl. Although common throughout the U.S. and southern Canada, they are so small, extremely nocturnal and secretive that we just don’t see them. Saw-whets are only the size of a robin. To protect themselves from predators, they seclude themselves among clusters of leaves or pine needles in the trees. At night, however, they are ferocious hunters as they silently dive down from those branches to take any kind of mouse or vole that’s in the area. And, they’re cute!
Yes, they are cute. They’re very small and delicate with mottled brown and white coloring, a large round head with no ear tufts, and big yellow eyes. They weigh in at a whopping 2.3-5.3 ounces, and have a wingspan of 16.5-18.9 inches. But, here’s the best part. The Northern Saw-whet Owl has no fear of humans. Birders, if they can find a Saw-whet, can take them from their perch and they will sit right in their hand, or perch on one’s shoulder or hat. Even though the Saw-whet is one of the most common owls across our country, it seems their size and secluded lifestyle has kept them from human interference. The Christmas tree that was brought into Rockefeller Center contained a Saw-whet. Those who found the little owl said he was the friendliest bird they ever saw. He was released to the wilds after making national news.
Back in the wilds, the Saw-whets are cavity nesters. Preferred cavity size is about 3 inches wide and 9-18 inches deep. The entrance hole is 2-3 inches across. The female makes up the nest and keeps it clean for a clutch of 4-7 eggs, and 1-2 broods a year. As the oldest chicks reach 18 days old, the female leaves the nest and the male takes over the feeding. As time passes, the older chicks will help feed the youngest. The clean nest left by the female soon becomes a mess, and by the time the chicks leave the nest, their clean home now has a thick layer of feces, pellets, and rotting prey leftovers. Males! Whatcha gonna do???
Like many cavity-nesters, dead trees with cavity holes are becoming harder and harder to find. This makes nest boxes more important to provide, and like other birds, the Saw-whets are fast to take advantage. Measurements for a basic Saw-whet nesting box is a 7″x7″ floor, 16″ to inside ceiling, and a 2.5″ entrance hole located 14″ above the floor. Make several ventilation holes. Owls don’t build nests, so adding some untreated wood shavings, dry pine needles or leaves will be inviting. Remember, birds will compete for housing. Don’t let some starling move in and take over!
As with other predators, no bird seed is necessary. The Northern Saw-whet Owl will sit on his perch in the dark of night and take more mice than he can eat. He will take his extra prey back to the perch and stand on them. He will then eat parts of his quarry and save the rest for later.
And, where did they get the name, Saw-whet? It’s not for sure, but most believe their incessant high pitched “too-too-too” call at night sounds like a saw being sharpened on a whetting stone. This is a common call, especially in pine forests. Bird watchers will listen for this call, but for the best results finding this common owl, watch for a song bird disturbance … it means the Saw-whet has been found and being urged to leave.
These little owls are cute, but it takes real planning to see them. Take your best binoculars and camera to validate your sighting. If you’re lucky, you may make a new little friend. I’ll see you out there.
