The Familiar Rhythm of Spring with Burrowing Owls

May marks the return of Burrowing Owls to many of Colorado’s Front Range grasslands, and for me, it often brings a familiar kind of work—surveying sites for nesting activity.

This spring, I was hired to conduct early morning surveys, following Colorado Parks and Wildlife guidelines to document owl behavior and check for signs of nesting.

It’s a process that requires patience and focus, but I always enjoy being out in the field with these amazing little owls.

They bring a kind of stillness to the landscape—eyes wide, posture alert, somehow managing to look both comical and completely in control of their world.

Not Your Typical Owl

Unlike most owls, Burrowing Owls are active during the day. For birders, that means more chances to observe them—and to connect.

They nest underground in abandoned prairie dog burrows, relying on short grass and open views. At Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, it’s possible to spot them in the right season—perched at a burrow entrance, scanning their surroundings, or flying low over the prairie.

On my spring birding tours at the Refuge, these moments can feel electric. The owls are small, but they carry an outsized presence. Every time we find one, it feels like a quiet victory.

Why Burrowing Owls Matter

These birds have a way of drawing people in—but they’re also facing real threats.

• Habitat loss continues to fragment the open spaces they rely on
  
• Prairie dog colony eradication removes their primary nesting sites
  
• In Colorado, Burrowing Owls are listed as a threatened species
  
• Conservation efforts include standardized surveys, nest protections, and education

I’ve seen the impact of these changes up close. I’ve also seen what’s possible when habitat is protected and managed with care. Places like the Arsenal still support healthy prairie—and that gives these owls a real chance.

When someone sees a Burrowing Owl for the first time, they usually lean in. They want to watch longer, ask questions, understand what they’re looking at. That kind of curiosity can turn into something lasting—and that’s where conservation starts to take root.

Want to Look for Burrowing Owls with Me?

If you’re curious about Burrowing Owls, or just want to spend a spring morning on the prairie, I’d love to have you join me.

My birding tours at Rocky Mountain Arsenal focus on prime habitat during peak season. We’ll look for nesting signs, observe behavior, and talk about what these owls are telling us about the grassland ecosystem as a whole.

Whether it’s your first time seeing them or your fiftieth, Burrowing Owls have a way of sticking with you.

Reserve your spot or learn more here or reach out to discuss a custom tour!