From Birds and Blooms · Kaitlin Stainbrook · · 1m 20s
Why Owls Nest Early in Winter
Owls start nesting in winter to keep young with parents longer than songbirds.
In brief
Owls start nesting in winter to keep young with parents longer than songbirds. Owls nest early in winter because their young stay with parents for months, unlike songbirds. Originally reported by Birds and Blooms.
Owls Nest in Winter
Many owl species choose nest sites in winter instead of waiting for spring.
Why Owls Nest Early
Owls start nesting in January, with great horned owls sometimes beginning as early as December.
Long Parental Care
Owls keep young with parents for months, unlike songbirds that leave after two weeks.
Owl Young Stay Close
Young owls stay near nests to learn flying and hunting, with feet strong but wings weak.
Owls Use Natural Nests
Most owl species reuse tree cavities or owl nest boxes for protection from cold.
Great Horned Owls
Great horned owls use nests built by other birds, adding soft materials like feathers.
Barred Owls
Barred owls reuse tree cavities, sometimes selecting sites up to a year in advance.
Barn Owls
Barn owls use human structures like barns and bridges, often having multiple broods per year.
Screech Owls
Screech owls use tree cavities or nest boxes, with eastern species adapting to human spaces.
The short version
Owls nest early in winter because their young stay with parents for months, unlike songbirds.
