The heavy snowfall in Nova Scotia this winter is driving the province’s smallest owls to venture into more human-inhabited regions in search of food. The Northern saw-whet owl, which is smaller than a robin, is facing challenges hunting its usual prey of mice, voles, and shrews due to the snow cover, according to Randy Lauff, a biology instructor at St. Francis Xavier University specializing in boreal and Northern saw-whet owls.
Owls, known for their sharp eyesight and exceptional hearing, possess remarkable predatory skills. Larger owls, in particular, can detect rodents moving under thick snow layers of 30 centimeters or more and use their size and strength to break through the snow to catch their prey with precision. However, the diminutive saw-whet owls struggle to do the same because of their small stature.
As a result of the food scarcity, saw-whet owls are being more frequently spotted in rural and urban areas this winter, particularly in yards with bird feeders where mice and small birds are attracted. Despite the perception of increased snowfall this season, CBC meteorologist Ryan Snoddon suggests that Nova Scotia’s winter conditions are largely in line with typical years, although recent snowfall may alter this assessment.
Recently, Hatfield Farm in Hammonds Plains, N.S., had a rare sighting of a saw-whet owl on its premises for the first time. The owl took refuge in one of the barns, perching in the rafters for a few days before moving on, presumably in search of small prey in the snowy environment.
Cherie Hatfield, the farm owner, noted the owl’s presence, mentioning the challenges predators face during harsh winters. She emphasized the importance of allowing wildlife their space to survive the season, ensuring minimal stress on the animals.
Lauff advises Nova Scotians who encounter saw-whet owls in their yards to appreciate them briefly, take a photo if desired, and then give the owl space to avoid causing distress. He recently recommended that the Nova Scotia Bird Society restrict the posting of saw-whet owl photos on its Facebook group to prevent birders from disturbing the owls unintentionally.
Snow cover, while aiding in prey visibility for birds of prey like owls, can also present challenges. Hope Swinemar, founder of Hope for Wildlife in Seaforth, N.S., highlighted the dual nature of snow cover for these birds, making prey easier to spot but potentially harder to access if snow crusts over. Swinemar stressed that most wildlife can adapt to harsh winter conditions better than humans, relying on years of evolutionary strategies to endure challenging weather conditions.
In summary, while the snow may be beneficial in some aspects for wildlife, it can also pose difficulties, emphasizing the need for coexistence and respect for the natural environment during the winter months.