BOREAL OWL

LIVING HABITS

The boreal owl is the most common owl species in Finland, and it nests in all parts of the country except the northest Lapland. It thrives well in spruce-dominant forests, but also approves mixed forests. The boreal owl’s nest is generally in a hollow made by a black wood pecker, but as forestry reduces nesting trees in forest the boreal owl also approves bird houses. Boreal owls are quite devoted to stay in the same area, but females move in wider area in search of food. For food, the boreal owl uses almost exclusively small rodents and other small mammals, as well as birds especially during the winter. The boreal owl has adapted to prey at night, but in winter it is also on the move during the day when it preys on birds.

CONSERVATION

Like all owls in Finland, the boreal owl is a protected species by the nature conservation law.

ADAPTING TO WINTER

When mole populations are low in number, in addition to young boreal owls also females migrate in search of food. The boreal owl can also change its prey from mammals hiding under the snow to birds that are more visible when flying in the air.