The Biodiversity of Richmond, British Columbia

The Owls of Richmond
 

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Barn Owl:  This is a frequently observed owl at dusk, especially in south Richmond. It flutters like a moth, and can be seen hovering over fields searching for prey. (Photo by Brian Klinkenberg)

Northern Saw-whet Owl:  this tiny owl makes its appearance in Richmond every winter.  Look for it in the lower branches of conifer trees.  (Photo by Brian Klinkenberg)

 

Barred Owl:  The numbers of this species of owl have increased in the last few years in Western North America. In Richmond, we have observed it in the Richmond Nature Park, near Sturgeon Bank, and hunting rats at Richmond Centre Mall.   (Photo by Brian Klinkenberg)

Short-eared Owl:  these diurnal owls were once abundant on Sea Island, but now are seen only occasionally in the old fields bordering the Vancouver Airport.  Watch for them as they flutter above the old fields.  (Photo by Brian Klinkenberg)
Great Horned Owl: this large owl competes with the Barred Owl for territory, and in Richmond can occasionally be seen at dusk in the agricultural areas.  This species breeds in Richmond. (Photo copyright by Don Baccus, with permission). Great Horned from Owls of North America--The Owl pages

Snowy Owl: the cyclical appearances of this stunning owl enlivens winter bird walks along the Richmond dykes.  Look for it at Iona Beach Regional Park on Iona Island.  (Photograph copyright Diane Williamson)
Western Screech-Owl: this tiny owl breeds in the lower Fraser Valley, and should be looked for in open deciduous and coniferous woods along the Fraser River. (Photo copyright by Greg Lasley) Western Screech Owl from the Owls of North America--the Owl pages Long-eared Owl: this large owl has been reported breeding on Iona and Sea Islands in Richmond.  It prefers deciduous thickets of hybrid birch, willows, black cottonwood and red alder, usually near water. It has been seen in thickets at Terra Nova.   (Photo copyright Alberta Museum, with permission.) Long-eared Owl, Alberta Provincial Museum

Burrowing Owl: Prior to expanded development and increased human activity, Richmond was home to a breeding population of the Burrowing Owl, which nested on Lulu and Sea Islands.  The last breeding record for it in Richmond was 1974, and the last sight observation was in 1992, near the Jetty on Iona Island. (Photo by Brian Klinkenberg)

    

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