Nocturnal Birds

Northern Saw-whet Owl

(Aegolius acadicus)

Species Description

**Description:** A tiny, secretive owl about the size of a Robin, with a large round head, yellow eyes, and no ear tufts.

**Size & Weight:** 7–8.5 inches tall. Weighs 2.3–5.3 oz.

**Sexual Dimorphism:** Females are larger and heavier than males.

**Behavior:** Named after its call, which resembles a saw being sharpened on a whetstone. Extremely docile and strictly nocturnal.

**Habitat:** Dense coniferous or mixed forests, often roosting close to tree trunks.

💡 Fun Facts

Saw-whet owls are so docile they will often sit still and allow people to approach them closely.
Northern Saw-whet Owl (Juvenile): Young birds are a solid, rich chocolate brown with a distinct white "V" between the eyes, looking completely different from mottled adults.
Northern Saw-whet Owl (Adult Molt): A documentation of the transitional plumage as this small owl replaces its flight feathers during late summer.
Northern Saw-whet Owl (Adult Gray): A documentation of the mature plumage, featuring a white facial disk and complex brown-and-white mottling for camouflage in conifers.
Northern Saw-whet Owl (Threat Display): A visual of the owl puffing out its feathers and snapping its beak to appear larger and more intimidating to potential predators.
Northern Saw-whet Owl (Winter Roost): A record of the owl tucked deep into a dense hemlock branch, often very close to the trunk, where it spends the daylight hours hidden.
Northern Saw-whet Owl (Ear Tuft Detail): A macro view of the head showing that unlike larger owls, the Saw-whet completely lacks the feathered "ear" tufts often associated with owls.
Northern Saw-whet Owl (Ear Openings): A macro view revealing the asymmetrical ear openings hidden under the feathers, which allow the owl to triangulate sound in total darkness.
Saw-whet Owls are highly migratory, with thousands moving south through the Allegheny Plateau every October in a "secret migration" that few people ever see.