High in the cool, misty mountains of our Costa Rican retreat, the twilight hours come alive with the silent ballet of the Short-eared Owl. While many owls prefer the cover of dense forests, this unique predator thrives in the open meadows that sprawl around our lodge. Keep your eyes peeled (and ears tuned) during your stay, for a glimpse of this fascinating bird is a truly unforgettable experience.

A Master of Camouflage

The Short-eared Owl, true to its name, has short tufts of feathers on its head that resemble ears. But unlike other owls where these tufts are prominent, the Short-eared Owl’s are often flattened and inconspicuous. This, along with its mottled brown and buff plumage, allows it to blend seamlessly with the long grasses of the meadows, becoming nearly invisible to its prey.

A Hunter on the Wing

Unlike most owls that hunt at night, the Short-eared Owl is frequently active during the day, particularly at dawn and dusk. With its exceptional eyesight and hearing, it soars effortlessly over the meadows, its large, round wings beating silently. Its keen senses allow it to pinpoint even the smallest movement in the tall grass below, where its preferred prey – voles, mice, and other small mammals – scurry about.

A Dance in the Sky

The Short-eared Owl’s hunting technique is quite a sight to behold. As it glides low over the meadows, it will suddenly dip its wings and hover, scanning the ground intently. If it spots prey, it will launch into a spectacular display of aerial acrobatics, twisting and turning with surprising agility as it chases its dinner. This mesmerizing dance through the air is a true marvel of nature, and a testament to the owl’s remarkable flying skills.

A Rare Treat

While not as common as some other Costa Rican birds, spotting a Short-eared Owl is a guaranteed highlight of your stay at our mountain retreat. If you’re fortunate enough to see one, take a moment to appreciate this silent hunter, perfectly adapted to its unique environment. With its exceptional camouflage and breathtaking aerial maneuvers, the Short-eared Owl is a true wonder of the Costa Rican highlands.

Tips for spotting a Short-eared Owl:

• Head out to the meadows early in the morning or later in the evening, when the owls are most active.
• Look for a medium-sized owl with a wingspan of around three feet, gliding or hovering low over the grass.
• Pay attention to any sudden dips or changes in the owl’s flight pattern, as this might indicate it has spotted prey.
• Bring binoculars for a closer look at this magnificent bird.

We hope this blog post has piqued your interest in the Short-eared Owl. Stay tuned for our next entry, where we will explore another fascinating feathered resident of our Costa Rican retreat!

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica

This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)