advertisement
17 July 2023
Among the beloved family of birds, owls hold a special place in the hearts of many. Their mysterious nocturnal nature often makes them elusive to spot. However, one owl species defies the norm and offers ample opportunities for observation during daylight hours—the adorable Burrowing Owl.
True to its name, the Burrowing Owl makes its home underground. While it can dig its burrows, it often takes over pre-existing holes created by prairie dogs or ground squirrels.
Unfortunately, the choice of habitat for Burrowing Owls presents challenges for their populations, especially in areas experiencing suburban sprawl. In regions like Phoenix, converting agricultural fields into housing developments often displaces Burrowing Owls nesting in those areas. This raises concerns about the stability of their populations and underscores the need for conservation efforts to ensure their survival.
Audubon Arizona, Wild at Heart, and the City of Phoenix joined to create the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area, complete with constructed artificial burrows. Here they offer the necessary food sources and expansive habitats essential for the thriving of these owls. Moreover, visitors can gain knowledge about the owls, understand the obstacles they encounter, and learn how they can contribute to their well-being. “Downtown Owls” originated in 2013 as an initiative to create urban wildlife habitats within the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area in the City of Phoenix. Since then, it has expanded to encompass several other locations throughout the valley, allowing for a broader impact on preserving these remarkable creatures.
Burrowing Owls readily embrace artificial dwellings. The design of the burrows is the “Prairie Dog Model.” 30 years ago, people tried to relocate prairie dogs in New Mexico using artificial tubing and recreating the underground layout of a typical prairie dog burrow. Ultimately the attempt failed at attracting prairie dogs but had the happy accident of attracting burrowing owls.
When the artificial burrows are constructed and ready, volunteers will house the owls in a tent for 30 days around their nesting time, giving them ample food and protection. During these 30 days, the owls can settle into the habitat and start the nesting process, which helps bind them to their new habitat. After 30 days, the tent is removed, and the owl can relocate on their own, but at this point, they’re happy in their new homes.
These efforts contribute to the preservation of the species and offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the owls, their challenges, and ways to contribute to their welfare. These efforts demonstrate the dedication of the community to protect these beloved creatures. With the successful establishment of artificial burrows and a supportive environment, the burrowing owls have a promising future in their new homes, thanks to the efforts of volunteers and organizations alike.
advertisement
Long before the Valley of the Sun became the desert city we know today, this region was a hub of dynamic earth processes that left behind the strange formations that make up the Papago Mountain. advertisement Ancient Origins Some of Arizona’s oldest geological features, such as the mountains around Sedona and Tucson, date back approximately 2.7 billion years. In comparison, the Phoenix area is geologically young, at 15 to 30 million years old. This makes it one of the newest regions in the state. Notably, much of Arizona’s ancient rock has been uplifted and carried far from its origin. Some
Arizona’s craft beer scene is flourishing, with major cities offering a diverse array of brewpubs that cater to every palate. Here’s a guide to some of the best brewpubs in Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, and Tempe. advertisement Phoenix Wren House Brewing Company: Located at 2125 N 24th St, this brewery is renowned for its award-winning beers. For instance, the Spellbinder IPA is crafted with Arizona-grown Sonoran white wheat and a blend of Cascade, Citra, and Mosaic hops. Hop Culture Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co.: Situated at 201 E Roosevelt St, this brewery emphasizes local ingredients. It offers unique brews that reflect the
The Grand Canyon, one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world, is a testament to the immense power of time and geology. It spans over 277 miles, reaching depths of more than a mile, and offers visitors a stunning view of layered rock formations that tell the story of Earth’s geological history. But how did this awe-inspiring landscape come to be? The formation of the Grand Canyon is the result of millions of years of geological processes, combining erosion, volcanic activity, and the slow movement of tectonic plates. advertisement The Ancient Foundations The Grand Canyon’s story began long
Thinking about exploring Arizona caves? You’re in luck if you’re a spelunker! Several cave systems in Arizona are well-known and accessible to the public, offering a mix of guided tours and self-exploration: Kartchner Caverns – Famous for its preserved formations and extensive guided tours, Kartchner is a must-see for any visitor. Learn More » Peppersauce Cave – A favorite for more adventurous explorers, Peppersauce allows visitors to experience a raw and natural cave environment. Learn More » Colossal Cave – Located near Tucson, this cave provides both standard and advanced tours for those seeking a challenge. Learn More » Grand
advertisement
| Cookie | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". |
| cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional | 11 months | The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". |
| cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". |
| cookielawinfo-checkbox-others | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. |
| cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". |
| viewed_cookie_policy | 11 months | The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data. |