Skip to content
Labugen

Short-Eared Owl on a Marsh Boardwalk

This wildlife illustration features a short-eared owl resting on a wooden boardwalk post above open wetland marshes.

A short-eared owl rests on a wooden boardwalk post above the wetlands.
Short-Eared Owl on a Marsh Boardwalk
Print Download PNG

A4 format (landscape), black outlines on a white background · for home and classroom use

Advertisement

All coloring pages: Owl Coloring Pages

More from this category

Similar coloring pages: Owl Coloring Pages

Next step

What else can you print? Free, no account needed

Short-Eared Owl in a Wetland Habitat

The short-eared owl is a distinctive bird of prey often seen in open habitats like marshes, peat bogs, and coastal wetlands. Unlike many other owls that stay hidden in dense forests, this species prefers wide vistas where it can scan grassy ground for small mammals. Standing on a boardwalk post gives the bird an elevated position to survey the damp terrain below.

Nesting and Hunting Habits in the Bogs

Short-eared owls nest directly on the ground in hidden spots among tall reeds and dense grass rather than high up in trees. They are famously active during daylight and dusk, flying low over meadows with irregular, butterfly-like wingbeats to catch field mice. These owls are also migratory, traveling long distances across continents as seasons change and food sources shift.

Natural Colors of the Short-Eared Owl and Marsh

  • Short-eared owl plumage: streaked brown, tawny, and buff feathers for camouflage
  • Owl eyes: striking bright yellow surrounded by black mascara-like rings
  • Owl beak: dark gray or black curved bill
  • Wooden boardwalk post: weathered gray or muted brown timber
  • Wetland marsh plants: olive green reeds, brownish grasses, and murky water tones
Questions and answers

Questions and Answers About Short-Eared Owls

Why do short-eared owls live in marshes instead of deep woods?
Open wetlands provide clear sightlines for spotting prey moving in the grass. The low vegetation also makes it easier for these owls to hunt on the wing without dodging dense tree branches.
How did the short-eared owl get its unique name?
The bird has small tufts of feathers on top of its head that look like tiny ears. These tufts are usually flattened and only stick up when the owl feels alert or defensive.
Are short-eared owls awake during the daytime?
Yes, short-eared owls are diurnal and crepuscular, meaning they regularly hunt during early morning, late afternoon, and twilight hours.
Advertisement