While it's easy to associate owls with forests and tree top nests, the Short-eared Owl finds its home in an entirely different kind of habitat. Short-eared Owls breed in northern climates and, like the Snowy Owl, are even happy making nests on the frigid Arctic tundra. Some of these owls live year-round in the northern US states, while others migrate to the southern tips of the country during the winter months. As with most owl species, migration is not a one-size fits all event.

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Most notably, however, the Short-eared Owl is associated with the grasslands and rangelands where it nests and roosts on the ground. Although most of their tundra habitats appear intact, other open-country habitats have been lost, fragmented, or converted for other use. Consequently, Short-eared Owl populations appear to be in significant decline throughout North America. Partners in Flight estimates Short-eared Owl populations to be in a 65% decline since 1970.

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Our current research on Short-eared Owls seeks to understand the vulnerabilities and threats to this species, its habitat, and its future. From here we can help influence effective conservation efforts.