"Adopt an Owl" at Woodland Dunes
October 29, 2000

Each autumn hundreds of tiny Saw-whet owls take a much needed rest at Woodland Dunes Nature Center as they travel on their southward migration. The Saw-whet owl travels by night and Woodland Dunes' 1,200 acre natural area is a beacon for the little bird.

The Saw-whet Owl is one of the most interesting, but difficult to find,of the native owls. Because of its small size and its nocturnal habits, most people never get an opportunity to see this owl. Until recently it was believed the Saw-whet was seldom found in our state. Because of research conducted in the past few years, it is now known that many of these owls can be found in the densely wooded areas of Woodland Dunes Nature Center. Volunteers and staff at Woodland Dunes have captured and banded over 250 of these owls already this year and banding continues for several more weeks.

The Saw-whet's name is believed to be derived from the sound of its voice, which is similar to the sound made by sharpening a saw on a whet stone. Saw-whet owls do not have ear-tufts. The adults are brown above with pale whitish streaks on the crown, and pale brown streaking on the whitish underparts. Saw-Whet owls are found throughout southern Canada and as migrants and winter residents throughout most of the northern 2/3 of the United States. It perches in dense evergreens and thickets and feeds mainly on mice. Full grown, this diminutive owl stands 7 inches tall and they are unusually tame.

If you are one of the hundreds of people who attended last week's Owlfest at Woodland Dunes you know the Saw-whet is adorable and quite docile. But you may not know that Woodland Dunes is putting these delightful owls up for "adoption." "Adopt an Owl" for only $25 and receive a beautiful "adoption" certificate, listing the name of the recipient, the band number of the owl, and the date banded. Enclosed in the certificate folder is a log book with information about the Saw-whet Owl and space to record future captures.

No, you cannot keep the owl, but you are helping the owls by supporting Woodland Dunes Nature Center in their efforts to continue studying the migration routes of this elusive owl and by helping to provide a haven during their autumn journey.

As our cities grow, habitat for the Saw-whet Owl is being destroyed. With your help Woodland Dunes will always be here to provide a resting spot for the Saw-whet, and hundreds of other migrating and nesting birds, plants and wildflowers, animals and everyone seeking the peace and solitude found in nature.

"Adopt an Owl" would make a wonderful gift for adults and children alike. Everyone will feel good knowing that they are helping the Saw-whet owl and Woodland Dunes Nature Center. Children will especially enjoy receiving future capture information and keeping track of the travels of their little owl.

It's easy to adopt an owl. Just visit the Woodland Dunes Nature Center headquarters on Hwy 310 to pick up an application or call 793-4007 and an application will be mailed.