The sandy, open lots in Cape Coral are often home to burrowing owl families.  The small, brown, speckled owls live in a maze of underground burrows and tunnels in empty fields throughout the city.  They can also be found along the road and many times make their home in the yards of Cape Coral residents. 

 The curious creatures grow to about 9 inches and have a 21-inch wingspan.  They have bright yellow eyes and a white chin.  Long legs provide enough height to give them a better view from the ground. Their diet consists of small rodents, lizards, beetles and crickets. Burrowing owls are active both day and night and frequently spend many hours atop any handy perch including the outdoor entry lights of a home.  Dig a shallow area in your yard and put up a small perch and you may find an owl family in your yard.  Keep in mind -- they don't always eat all of the food they bring home!     

    The State of Florida and a federal bird act protect the owls from being disturbed or harassed.  If a nest of babies is discovered on a construction site, work will halt until the babies are old enough to fly and feed themselves -- around 6 weeks from birth.  

    In the months of May and June, motorists are asked to be careful around nesting sites.  While the babies are learning to fly, they often rest in the middle of the road and don't seem too concerned about traffic bearing down on them.  

    When approached, burrowing owls will bob their heads and bodies to let you know they are unhappy.  They will stay on their perch long enough for you to get a good look but if you get too close, they will quickly leave the area.  

    Cape Coral has the state's largest population of burrowing owls - estimated by state officials at around 1,000 pairs.