THE NORTHERN PYGMY OWL
Native to temperate, subtropical and tropical forests in western North America, from southeastern Alaska and British Columbia south to California, Arizona and northern Mexico, this owl has several recognized subspecies, but in the Whistler area, you’re most likely to see Pacific or Coastal Pygmy Owls.
Unfortunately, these tiny owls can be a challenge for bird watchers to spot. Not only are they quite small, standing just 15 to 17 centimetres tall, and are well camouflaged by their mostly brownish-red and brownishgrey colours, the males also hang out at the tops of tall coniferous trees to shout out their territorial calls.
Pygmy owls habitually nest in tree cavities, often setting up camp in old woodpecker holes. While the female guards her eggs, the male covers hunting duties, bringing food home approximately every two hours. After leaving the nest, fledglings will remain close by in the forest canopy for the next few weeks, huddling together while they await food deliveries.
Winter offers your best chance to spot pygmy owls, as they move down from the mountaintops to hunt for small birds and other prey. They are also diurnal creatures, meaning they are active in the daytime, so with a keen eye you may catch a glimpse of the pint-sized predator on your winter hike.