Flammulated Owl
Otus flammeolus
Though once considered rare in Boulder County, these sparrow-sized insectivores are actually among our easiest owls to find. During the breeding season, Flammulated owls respond readily to any reasonable imitation of their territorial call. They nest in densities of two or more pairs per square mile in remote foothills canyons throughout the county.
Because of their affinity for old-growth ponderosa pine/Douglas-fir forests, these little owls have been designated a U.S. Forest Service species of special concern. Nesting locations are given priority for preservation in forest management plans. Pairs begin to arrive from Central America in early May. A few weeks later, the female lays two to four eggs in a woodpecker hole in an aspen or large-diameter ponderosa pine. Shortly after the young have hatched in late June or early July, the adults abruptly stop hooting. But the young owls hiss loudly as they beg for food--generally moths and other large insects snared by the talons of their acrobatic parents. To find flammulated owls in early summer, visit any roadless foothills canyon containing large ponderosa pines and dense shrubbery. Listen to the hermit thrushes and nighthawks as dusk settles in. Hoot softly, and wait for magic.Vocalizations: A soft hoot, given singly or in threes, "whoot, whoot, wh-wh-whoot." Rising whistles and wails.
Nesting: Woodpecker hole in aspen or large ponderosa pine, roadless foothills canyons from 6,500 to 9,500 feet, May-July.
Where to listen and look: Boulder Mountain Park; South, Middle, and North St. Vrain Canyons and side canyons; Golden Gate Canyon State Park; Mt. Falcon Park, west of Morrison.