Habits
Habits
HABIT hab·it \ ’ha-bət\ noun A behavior pattern acquired by frequent repetition or physiologic exposure that shows itself in regularity or increased facility of performance,
B
arn Owls are not only stunning birds to see, with their unique facial disks and coloring, but they also possess many characteristics that make them interesting to study. From choosing the ideal nest in which to lay their eggs to the lethal efficiency of their hunting prowess, Barn Owls’ place in the skies above us is secured by some remarkable features.
The Perfect Homemaker Barn Owls are able to choose homes that meet their specific needs for safety, access to food, and as much shelter from weather elements as possible. A typical Barn Owl nest consists of a safe platform where eggs can be laid in a small area, decorated by debris such as feathers and pellets that the female has vomited around the nest. Additionally, the male will come and begin stacking up food around the nest that the female owl will consume until the eggs have hatched. Then she will tear pieces of prey to feed her young. When they are old enough, the young chicks will begin ingesting prey whole. Since they have a tremendous reproduction capacity, the owls need to eat constantly. In some regions, it is possible to observe them nesting year-round, raising as many as four clutches. Barn Owls in the most populated areas of the Southwest and Northwest United States begin selecting nesting sites in December or January. The nesting season is typically from February to May, with peak hatches in April.
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Occasionally, new nests may be started as late as March.
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