What does the Boreal Owl eat?

The Boreal Owl's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Carnivore, primarily preying on small mammals (voles, shrews, mice) and occasionally small birds and insects.

How it forages

Primarily a nocturnal hunter, but can be crepuscular, especially during breeding season or in northern latitudes with long daylight hours. Hunts from a perch, swooping down silently to capture prey on the ground or in snow. Excellent hearing allows it to locate prey under snow.

When it feeds

Nocturnal, but can be active at dusk and dawn (crepuscular).

Explore the Boreal Owl