Jennifer Ackerman’s latest book, “What an Owl Knows: The New Science of the World’s Most Enigmatic Birds,” delves into the fascinating world of owls and explores what makes them such unique and mysterious creatures. In a recent interview with Russ Roberts on EconTalk, Ackerman shared her insights into the behavior and habits of these nocturnal predators.
Ackerman’s fascination with owls began years ago when she installed an owl box in her backyard and observed an Eastern screech owl roosting in it. The sight of the owl bringing back large prey like blue jays and mourning doves to its roost intrigued Ackerman and sparked her curiosity about these enigmatic birds. As a science writer specializing in birds, Ackerman saw an opportunity to delve deeper into the world of owls and uncover the secrets of their behavior.
Owls are known for their exceptional hunting skills, eerie quiet flight, and extraordinary senses. They are apex predators in their ecosystems, preying on a wide range of animals from insects to small mammals. However, despite their prowess as hunters, owls themselves are not immune to predation. Young owls, in particular, are vulnerable to predators like snakes, raccoons, skunks, and other birds of prey. Larger owls like the Great Horned Owl and Eurasian Eagle Owl may even prey on smaller owl species.
One of the puzzles that Ackerman explores in her book is the daytime behavior of owls, specifically their tendency to remain motionless and camouflaged during daylight hours. Ackerman recounts her observations of Long-eared Owls near her office, noting how they blend seamlessly into their surroundings and are often difficult to spot. Despite being formidable predators at night, Long-eared Owls rely on camouflage to avoid detection by larger birds of prey during the day.
Overall, “What an Owl Knows” offers readers a fascinating glimpse into the world of these enigmatic birds and sheds light on the latest scientific discoveries about owl behavior and ecology. Ackerman’s meticulous research and engaging storytelling make this book a must-read for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Owls are fascinating creatures that have evolved incredible adaptations to survive in their environments. Their ability to camouflage themselves is truly remarkable, making them almost invisible to the naked eye. One such example is the Long-eared Owl, known for its tufted ears that rise up from the top of its head. These tufts, or plumicorns, are not ears but are actually specialized feathers that help the owl blend in with its surroundings.
During a field study in Montana, the challenge of spotting a Long-eared Owl was evident. The owl’s ability to look like a broken branch, with its tall and thin appearance, made it difficult to keep track of. The plumicorns on its head could be made erect, adding to its vertical appearance. In addition, the swaying of these plumicorns in the wind mimicked the movement of a branch, further enhancing its camouflage. This adaptation is crucial for the owl’s survival, as it can be targeted by larger birds of prey.
Another fascinating aspect of owls is their unique hearing capabilities. Some owls, such as the Great Gray Owl, Boreal Owl, and Barn Owl, have asymmetrically placed ear openings. This allows them to precisely locate the source of even the faintest noise in three-dimensional space. By comparing the sounds arriving at each ear, the owl can gauge the exact horizontal location and elevation of the sound, helping it to locate and strike at its prey with incredible accuracy.
The Snowy Owl, known for its ability to hunt in snowy conditions, can detect small rodents tunneling beneath the snow from a distance of 30 feet. This remarkable feat is achieved through the owl’s acute hearing, which allows it to pinpoint the location of its prey and make a swift and accurate dive to capture it.
Field researchers and community scientists dedicated to studying owls play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of these mysterious birds. Their work is challenging, often requiring them to navigate remote locations and difficult field conditions to study these elusive creatures. The dedication and passion of these researchers are truly inspiring, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to protect these remarkable birds.
In conclusion, owls are truly remarkable creatures with unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in diverse environments. From their incredible camouflage abilities to their exceptional hearing capabilities, owls continue to captivate and intrigue researchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Through ongoing research and conservation efforts, we can ensure the survival of these fascinating birds for future generations to appreciate and admire. Owls will regurgitate these pellets after consuming their prey, and they are full of bones and other indigestible parts. So, if you see pellets at the base of a tree where owls are perched, it’s a good indication that they have been hunting in that area.
When it comes to the hunting habits of owls, they are primarily nocturnal predators. Their excellent hearing and sight allow them to locate and catch their prey in the dark. Owls have a wide range of diet, depending on their size and habitat. From insects to small mammals like mice, rabbits, and even birds, owls are skilled hunters that play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystems.
One interesting aspect of owl feeding behavior is that they often eat their prey whole. This means that they ingest fur, bones, and teeth along with the meat. Since they cannot digest these indigestible parts, owls form pellets in their stomachs to expel them later. These pellets are a treasure trove of information for researchers and educators, as they can dissect them to learn more about what the owl has been eating.
So, the next time you come across pellets at the base of a tree or see an owl in action, remember the incredible hunting skills and unique feeding habits of these fascinating creatures. Owls are not only beautiful birds to admire but also play a vital role in the delicate balance of nature. Owls are fascinating creatures with a wide range of behaviors and habits that make them intriguing subjects for study. One interesting aspect of owl behavior is their favorite places to roost and eat their prey. Owls often choose specific locations to roost, such as the base of a tree, where they will drop their pellets after eating. By looking for these pellets, you can spot Long-eared Owls in the area.
When it comes to eating prey, owls have different preferences. Some owls, like Snowy Owls, will stockpile prey, such as lemmings, near their nests. Denver Holt, a researcher who has studied Snowy Owls for 40 years, once found a nest with 86 lemmings piled up around it. The cold Arctic climate helps preserve the lemmings, allowing the owls to feed their young one lemming at a time.
While some owls may stockpile prey, most prefer to eat their food fresh. In captivity, feeding owls can be a challenge because they prefer fresh, bloody prey. This is one reason why owls do not make good pets, as their dietary preferences can be difficult to meet.
When it comes to nesting, owls do not build their own nests but instead take over structures built by other animals. For example, Long-eared Owls may use nests built by ravens or magpies, while Great Grey Owls might commandeer old raven or hawk nests. There are also species like the Burrowing Owl that nest underground in burrows created by prairie dogs or armadillos.
Owls also nest in human-made structures, such as nesting boxes provided by scientists for research purposes. Dead trees are another favored nesting spot for owls, as the hollowed-out holes provide shelter and protection for the birds. Great Grey Owls, in particular, like to nest on top of dead snags, which offer a unique vantage point and nesting site.
In terms of vocalizations, owls have a wide range of sounds beyond the classic “whoo” hoot. They use different calls to communicate information about their sex, size, weight, individual identity, and state of mind. Territorial hoots are common among owls and are often the vocalizations that people associate with these birds. Overall, owls have complex vocal repertoires that play a crucial role in their communication and behavior.
And, it’s not just researchers who use these vocalizations to attract owls. People who keep captive owls for educational purposes also use these sounds to communicate with their feathered friends. Karla Bloem, who runs the International Owl Center, adopted a Great Horned Owl named Alice. From a young age, Alice saw Karla as a partner and communicates with her through hoots.
At first, Karla struggled to understand Alice’s vocalizations and how to hoot back. This led to a deep dive into the study of Great Horned Owl vocalizations, where Karla discovered 15 distinct sounds that these owls make. Through dedication and research, Karla learned how to properly communicate with Alice using her hoots, strengthening their bond.
Interestingly, Alice also played a role in Karla’s personal life. She would use Alice as a litmus test for her boyfriends. If Alice didn’t approve of them, she would dive-bomb them. However, when Karla’s now-husband, Hein, entered the picture, Alice accepted him with open wings. This shows that owls are not only territorial but also good judges of character.
Overall, the bond between humans and owls goes beyond just caretaking. Through vocal communication, humans can build strong relationships with these majestic birds, whether it’s for research, education, or personal companionship.
Owls are fascinating creatures that have captured the curiosity and imagination of humans for centuries. Their mysterious nature, silent flight, and nocturnal habits make them both elusive and captivating. Scientists have long been intrigued by these birds of prey and have studied them in a controlled and specific manner to better understand their behaviors and habits.
However, it is important to note that trying to draw in owls using techniques such as hooting can have negative consequences. Owls are very territorial and using calls to attract them can disturb their natural behavior. This can cause them to expend unnecessary energy, thinking there is a rival in the area, and leaving their nests exposed. It is not recommended to try to draw in owls in this way as it can be harmful to the birds.
If one is interested in experiencing the presence of owls, there are better ways to do so without disrupting their natural behavior. Owls are most active at dawn and dusk, so listening for their hoots during these times can provide an opportunity to hear them. Additionally, observing their hunting habits can be a rewarding experience, but it is important to do so without interfering with their activities.
Owls have incredible capabilities in flight, with the ability to navigate dense vegetation and fly silently through the night. Their wings are designed to minimize sound, with features such as a velvet coating and a comb on the front of the wing that reduces turbulence. This allows them to move through trees and branches without making a sound, showcasing their remarkable flight skills.
Despite their large wingspan, owls are able to fly with partially extended wings if necessary. Their flight is buoyant and slow, making it easier for them to maneuver through tight spaces such as dense forests or trees. Watching owls take flight can be a breathtaking experience, as they gracefully extend their wings and soar through the night sky.
Overall, observing owls in their natural habitat can be a rewarding and enlightening experience. By respecting their space and behaviors, we can appreciate these magnificent creatures without causing them harm. Owls are truly remarkable birds, and their presence in the natural world is a reminder of the beauty and complexity of the animal kingdom. The mystery of owls, those elusive creatures of the night, has long captivated researchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Jennifer Ackerman, in her book “The Bird Way: A New Look at How Birds Talk, Work, Play, Parent, and Think,” delves into the world of owls and the challenges of studying these nocturnal birds.
One of the key challenges in researching owls is the need to trap and band them, take blood samples, and conduct DNA analysis to understand their species and relationships. Ackerman acknowledges the ethical considerations of this research, particularly when owls are subjected to procedures that may seem invasive. However, she emphasizes that researchers are dedicated to minimizing the impact on wild owls and ensuring that their time in captivity is as stress-free as possible.
David Johnson, who runs the Global Owl Project, exemplifies this dedication to ethical research practices. Despite studying every owl in his area and subjecting them to various procedures, the owls under his care have thrived and multiplied. Ackerman highlights the importance of these research efforts in preserving owl populations and habitats, which are under threat due to human activities.
Russ Roberts raises the question of the tension between human intervention and the natural world, particularly in the context of conservation efforts. While acknowledging the role humans play in preserving species, he reflects on the complex emotions and ethical considerations involved in wildlife research. Ackerman agrees that young researchers may struggle with the ethical implications of their work but ultimately see the greater mission of conservation as paramount.
One intriguing aspect of owl research that Ackerman explores is the use of dogs to locate owl pellets. These pellets, which contain indigestible parts of prey, emit an odor that dogs can detect. By utilizing dogs in the field, researchers can locate rare owl species and gain valuable insights into their behavior and ecology.
Overall, Ackerman’s book sheds light on the world of owls and the dedicated researchers who strive to understand and protect these enigmatic birds. Through their efforts, we gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate relationship between humans and wildlife and the importance of conservation in preserving our natural world.
The use of dogs to locate rare owl species is a fascinating technique that has been proven to be very effective. These specially trained dogs are able to detect owl pellets in remote areas, which then leads their trainers to the presence of these elusive birds. The dogs are able to differentiate between different species of pellets and are trained to lie down next to the pellets without disturbing them.
One such organization that utilizes these detection dogs is the Rogue Detective Team, which trains dogs to locate rare species of animals, including mammals and insects. The dogs are able to locate these rare species and then alert their trainers to their presence, without causing any harm to the animals.
One interesting example of this technique in action is the use of dogs to find the Masked Owl in Tasmania, a very rare species, as well as the Northern Spotted Owl. The dogs have proven to be invaluable in locating these elusive birds in their natural habitats.
The idea of using one species of animal to help locate another is a beautiful example of the interconnectedness of nature. These dogs are highly trained and skilled at their work, making them valuable partners in conservation efforts.
Overall, the use of detection dogs to locate rare owl species is a unique and effective method that has proven to be successful in conservation efforts. These dogs play a crucial role in helping researchers and conservationists locate and study rare owl species, ultimately contributing to the preservation of these magnificent birds.
Owls are fascinating creatures that have long captured the imagination of humans. The sharp talons of these birds are a testament to their predatory nature, as researchers who handle them often bear the marks of their razor-sharp claws. These talons are used to tear apart prey before swallowing it whole or feeding it to their young in smaller chunks.
In addition to their hunting prowess, owls also exhibit behaviors that are reminiscent of cats. Their plumicorns, or ear tufts, and sleek movements give them a feline grace that is undeniable. In fact, some researchers have even compared owls to cats, noting the similarities in their appearance and behavior.
Artists throughout history have also been inspired by owls, with many incorporating these majestic birds into their works. Picasso, for example, featured owls in some of his more adult-themed drawings, adding a unique twist to his art. Owls have also made appearances in various paintings and sculptures over the years, showcasing their enduring appeal in the world of art.
But are owls truly wise, as they are often portrayed in folklore and mythology? While the idea of the wise owl is a common trope, recent research has revealed that owls possess a level of intelligence that is far more complex than previously thought. Their brains are densely packed with neurons, allowing them to exhibit behaviors that are surprisingly intelligent and adaptive.
One example of owl intelligence is seen in the training of wild Barred Owls by ornithologist Rob Bierregaard. Through a simple whistle cue, these owls can be trained to come to a specific location to receive food or have a GPS device attached. This ability to learn and adapt quickly demonstrates the remarkable intelligence of these birds, challenging our preconceived notions of their cognitive abilities.
Overall, the study of owl intelligence is still in its infancy, with much more to learn about the depth and breadth of their cognitive abilities. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of owl behavior and intelligence, we may gain a greater appreciation for these enigmatic creatures and the unique ways in which they navigate their world. Owls are fascinating creatures that seem to be genetically imprinted with certain behaviors, such as their unique vocalizations. Unlike songbirds, which learn their songs through a process of vocal learning, owls are born with the ability to hoot. They start vocalizing even before they hatch from the egg, emitting little chitters that eventually develop into the distinctive hoots we associate with owls.
However, while vocalizations may be genetic, owls are also capable of learning from their environment and each other. For example, Long-eared Owls in Serbia have been observed roosting communally in large groups during the winter months. It is believed that these communal roosts serve as information-sharing centers where owls can learn from one another about food sources, dangers, and other important information.
This ability to learn from their surroundings highlights the complexity of owl behavior, with some aspects being genetically hardwired while others are acquired through experience. The research and insights gained from studying owls have not only expanded our knowledge of these mysterious birds but also deepened our appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.
In conclusion, owls have much to teach us about moving through the world in a quieter way and listening more attentively. Their mysterious nature and the vast amount of information that is still unknown about them serve as a reminder of the endless wonders waiting to be discovered in the natural world. Jennifer Ackerman’s exploration of owls in her book has not only enriched our understanding of these fascinating creatures but has also inspired a deeper sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around us. Title: The Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity
Climate change is a global crisis that is having a profound impact on biodiversity around the world. The earth’s climate is changing at an unprecedented rate due to human activities such as deforestation, industrialization, and the burning of fossil fuels. These activities are releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which are trapping heat and causing the planet to warm up.
One of the most significant consequences of climate change is the loss of biodiversity. Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms on earth, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. It is essential for the health of ecosystems and for the survival of all living organisms. However, as the planet warms, many species are struggling to adapt to the changing conditions, leading to a decline in biodiversity.
One of the main ways in which climate change is impacting biodiversity is through habitat loss. Rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events are altering ecosystems around the world. This is causing habitats to shrink, fragment, or disappear altogether, making it difficult for many species to survive. Animals that rely on specific habitats, such as polar bears in the Arctic or coral reefs in the ocean, are particularly vulnerable to these changes.
In addition to habitat loss, climate change is also affecting the distribution and abundance of species. As temperatures rise, many species are moving to higher latitudes or altitudes in search of cooler climates. This can lead to conflicts with other species, competition for resources, and disruptions to ecosystems. Some species may not be able to adapt quickly enough to these changes and could face extinction.
Another way in which climate change is impacting biodiversity is through the loss of food sources. Many species rely on specific plants or animals for food, and changes in temperature or rainfall can disrupt these food sources. For example, changes in ocean temperatures are affecting the distribution of fish, which in turn impacts marine mammals that rely on them for food. This can lead to declines in population numbers and even extinction.
Overall, the impact of climate change on biodiversity is a serious concern that requires urgent action. Governments, organizations, and individuals must work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect habitats, and promote sustainable practices. By taking these steps, we can help to mitigate the effects of climate change on biodiversity and preserve the rich variety of life forms that make our planet so unique.
