Owls, specifically Long-eared Owls, can be found living in various habitats throughout New Jersey. One common place to find them is in stands of pine and other trees with dense branches during the winter months. These trees provide the owls with ample roosting spots where they can rest and stay protected from the elements.
During the winter, when the nights are longer and colder, Long-eared Owls gather in these stands of trees in large numbers. This behavior is known as communal roosting, where multiple owls will gather together in one location. The dense branches of the trees provide them with shelter and safety, as well as insulation from the cold weather.
In addition to these winter roosting sites, Long-eared Owls can also be found in other habitats throughout New Jersey. They are known to hunt in open grasslands, where they search for small mammals such as mice, voles, and shrews. These grasslands provide the owls with a prime hunting ground, as they can easily spot their prey and swoop down to catch them in flight.
Long-eared Owls are skilled hunters, and their hunting technique often involves hovering in mid-air before pouncing on their prey. This hovering behavior allows them to accurately locate and target their prey, even in open grasslands where there may be limited cover.
While small mammals make up the majority of their diet, Long-eared Owls have also been known to prey on rabbits and occasionally small birds. Their ability to catch prey in flight or when hovering gives them an advantage when hunting these faster-moving animals.
Unlike some other owl species, Long-eared Owls do not build nests. Instead, they typically use existing nests or cavities in trees, or even utilize abandoned nests of other birds. This behavior is known as “nest piracy,” where the owls take over the nests of other species.
Long-eared Owls in New Jersey can be found in winter roosting sites in stands of pine and other trees with dense branches. They utilize these roosts for shelter and protection during the colder months. In addition, they hunt in open grasslands for small mammals, rodents, rabbits, and occasionally small birds. Their unique hunting techniques and adaptability to various habitats make them fascinating creatures to observe in the wild.