what is an owls preferred nest in the dead of winter?

Question

I read that there is an owls nest near my home, but after following instructions from the source, I have yet to find it. I was wondering if it may be inside of a tree hollow and not an actual stick and twig nest that I have been searching for.

Answer 1

Animals are extremely adept at hiding their nesting sites. It would greatly help me answer your question if I knew what kind of owl nest you were looking for since different species have various methods of nesting. You are most likely correct in assuming you are looking for the wrong type of nest. The owl has probably found a hollow tree or an old nest of some other bird.

Answer 2

Great horned owls are monogomous. They remain together for years.



"Large species of owls may occupy stick nests built by eagles hawks or ravens, or may nest on the top of a stump or snag, in a niche between diverging branches ina cave or cliff face or in an old building. Owls often reuse sites...many species use nest boxes"



First of all, birds don't use nests unless they are reproducing...incubating (35 days for GHOW), or tending to fledglings (up to 3 months for GHOW).



You may e looking for a roost if the birds aren't breeding yet. A roost is a site where an owl spends it's days sleeping. A typical roost site will have many owls pellets near it. Depending on where you live they may be breeding.



If you want to find this nest go out at dusk and listen for the owls. The male has a lower hoot than the female. Try to locate the owls.



I hope the information I am providing will be used for an appreciation for these awesome creatures and not something stupid like to kill one. Bad news...especially in the breeding season.