Glaucidium gnoma
The northern pygmy owl is a creature about the size of a Western bluebird - about 7 inches. The owl makes up for its size with fearless attacks on prey larger than itself. Once in City Creek Canyon, I watched one catch a rat. It had trouble getting airborne afterward with the weight of its large prey.
They are uncommon, yet a permanent resident in Utah. They are most often active at night, but will hunt during the day. The northern pygmy owl has two spots on the nape of its neck, which look like another set of eyes. These eye spots make songbirds think twice before harassing a roosting owl, unsure whether it is facing them and ready to attack.
The owl has yellow eyes, a yellowish bill and a rounded head without ear tufts. They are cavity nesters, using tree cavities or old woodpecker holes.
The northern pygmy owl is relatively tame and will allow a close approach.
---
By Bill Fenimore, owner of the Layton Wild Bird Center. Visit http://www.wildlife.utah.gov/birdsightings for more information.
