Marin County, California

Burrowing Owl

(Athene cunicularia)

Burrowing owls, charming and diminutive, inhabit the diverse landscapes of California where they carve out homes in open grasslands, deserts, and agricultural fields. These owls are unique for their preference to nest underground, often utilizing abandoned burrows dug by mammals like ground squirrels. Despite their small stature, burrowing owls play a significant ecological role by controlling rodent populations and serving as indicators of ecosystem health. In California, conservation efforts are underway to protect these charismatic birds, as their populations face threats from habitat loss due to urbanization and agricultural development. Through community-driven initiatives and habitat restoration projects, there is hope for the continued survival and thriving of burrowing owls in the Golden State.

When I decided to leave my house in February 2024 in search of wildlife to photograph, there was quite the storm raging. The wind was pretty intense (like 25mph sustained, 50mph gusts) so naturally I decided on going out to the coast where the wind and rain would be so, so much worse.

I never regret leaving the house, even on the worst weather days. This one photo made every drop of rain worth it. Also, this photo was taken using my vehicle as a blind and heavily cropped. Always be ethical while photographing all wildlife, especially owls!