Owls are fascinating, silent predators often associated with the mystery of the night. Backyard bird enthusiasts commonly observe these nocturnal raptors near their feeders, leading to the question of why they would be drawn to an area designed for seed-eating birds. Their interest in the feeder area is purely predatory, though not for the seed itself.
Owl Diet and Nutritional Needs
Owls are classified as obligate carnivores, meaning their diet must consist almost entirely of meat to meet their nutritional requirements. Unlike birds that eat seeds and grains, owls lack the necessary digestive enzymes to break down cellulose and other plant matter efficiently. This biological constraint makes birdseed entirely irrelevant to their survival.
The foundation of an owl’s diet is built upon small mammals, such as voles, mice, shrews, and rabbits. Depending on the species, prey also includes insects, reptiles, amphibians, and small birds. They consume their prey whole or in large pieces, and the indigestible parts like fur, bones, and feathers are later compressed into compact masses called pellets, which are then regurgitated.
Why Owls Are Seen Near Bird Feeders
The presence of an owl near a bird feeder is a calculated hunting strategy targeting the animals the feeder attracts. Bird feeders create a localized, high-density food source that supports a large population of small creatures. These include songbirds that feed during the day and rodents, like mice and voles, that scavenge spilled seed on the ground under the cover of darkness. This concentration of potential prey turns the feeder area into an ideal hunting ground for an owl.
In winter, when natural prey is harder to find beneath snow and ice, owls may be more frequently observed near feeders, sometimes even during the day. The raptor will often perch on a nearby branch or post, using its exceptional hearing and low-light vision to locate prey. The sound of rodents rustling or the movement of a small bird is easily pinpointed by the owl’s asymmetrical ear openings, which provide highly directional sound location.
Encouraging Owls Safely
For those who appreciate having these predators nearby, there are several ways to support local owl populations. Owls need secure, elevated spots for resting and hunting. Maintaining large, mature trees, particularly evergreens, offers suitable cover for roosting during the day and secure perches for hunting at night.
Supporting Local Owls
- Installing a species-specific nesting box can provide a safe place for cavity-nesting owls, such as screech owls or barn owls, to raise their young. These boxes should be placed high up on a tree or post before the start of the nesting season.
- Avoid the use of rodenticides, or rat poison, in the yard or surrounding areas, as owls and other raptors risk secondary poisoning when they consume poisoned rodents.
- Minimizing outdoor light pollution at night helps, as owls rely on the dark to utilize their specialized vision and hearing for hunting effectively.
- A deep, clean birdbath can also provide a necessary water source for both drinking and bathing.