Day: September 29, 2021

Also known as the Hoot Owl, these large, round-headed birds get their name from the bar-like marks on their feathers. They are extremely aware of their own boundaries and show this to others through physical actions. Fossils of barred owls, dating back at least 11,000 years, have been dug up in Florida, Tennessee, and Ontario.

A Bird that Does Not Migrate

The Barred owl is often found near water and matured forests. Mature forests offer a higher diversity of prey and are likely to have more suitable cavities for nesting. As mentioned previously, they can be found across Canada and the eastern United States. These brown and white birds enjoy spending their time close to water and do not migrate for any season. They are often found either living in the same place or no more than 6 miles away.

Living in the same region all year long allows these birds to have access to all small animals and maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. Their prey includes chipmunks, squirrels, rabbits, birds, and other crustaceans. Barred owls are carnivores that indulge in hunting throughout dusk, dawn and through the night.

The barred owl uses sounds to express itself throughout the day. A distinctive hooting call of around 8 – 9 notes that is described as “Who cooks for you? Who cools for you -all?” is used often for courtship, signals the presence of a predator and more. The adults may also snap their bills during squabbles over food or authority.

Invasive to Some Parts of North America

Although the owls are native to eastern North America, they are now considered invasive to the Pacific Northwest due to the threat they pose to the Spotted Owl—their smaller, less aggressive cousin.

Because both barred and spotted owls depend on old-growth forests, these two species are now competing for food and space—causing the displacement of spotted owls that have lived in those forests for many years. Overlogging and other human activities are accelerating this problem, making barred owls one of the fastest-growing invasive species in parts of North America.

Learn more about how you can make your city bird-friendly through our Bird Friendly City program!

The post Who’s There? Meet North America’s Barred Owl appeared first on Nature Canada.

The personal stories and memories that Nature Canada members share about their love of nature always put a smile on my face. Thank you! It truly is such a delight to read and hear about the many ways our members and supporters have come to appreciate, respect and love nature:  

Whether it was their mother or father, a special teacher, professor or Guide leader, teaching them about the flowers, birds, sights and sounds of nature. 

Or by watching, reading and learning from others like Rachel Carson, Sir David Attenborough, Dr. David Suzuki, their local naturalist club or teachings from Indigenous peoples, it reminds me that there are many different paths that can lead people to care about nature and want to defend it. 

Growing up on a farm, hiking or canoe trips in the summer, spending time in the backyard garden or nature walks in the nearby green space are just a few of the wonderful stories members share with us. Here are a few quotes that were inspiring and uplifting:

“I was raised to respect nature, be curious, watch and learn”

“My mom brought birds and nature into my heart and mind”

“My father taught me to walk gently on the earth and to be aware and sensitive”

“Nature will provide if respected and cherished”

We all have the power to make a difference to protect and restore nature more than you might realize when you leave a special gift in your Will. Leaving even a small portion to charities like Nature Canada can result in a bigger contribution than you ever thought possible, while still supporting those you love. In short, you can do both!

Nature Canada is a partner in Will Power, a national campaign launched earlier this month to show Canadians the power they have to do more with their Will.  You may be surprised to see that even 1% left in your Will can have an enormous impact for nature, while still leaving 99% of your estate for loved ones. You can try the free, simple and easy-to-use legacy calculator on our Will Power page to see what you can do with your Will.

And if you have a spare moment, I’d love to hear your personal story. Drop me a note or call me and let me know what drives your giving to nature and about the change you are hoping to make in the world for a better future.   

If you have questions about Nature Canada campaigns and efforts, please don’t hesitate to contact me by calling me on my direct line at 1-800-267-4088 ext 239. I’m here to help.

The post You Have the Power to Make a Difference for Nature appeared first on Nature Canada.