Western Burrowing Owl

(Athene cunicularia hypugaea)

This small owl can be found in a broad range of open environments throughout North and South America. Unlike most owls, they are diurnal, though they tend to avoid midday heat. They are characterized by a white chin patch, eyebrows, big bright eyes, and an absence of ear tufts. As with most burrowing owls who build their nests on the ground, they have developed long legs with which to flee faster.