Increase in distribution records of owl species in Manitoba based on a volunteer nocturnal survey using Boreal Owl (Aegolius funereus) and Great Gray Owl (Strix nebulosa) playback

Abstract

From 1991 through 1995, extensive owl surveys were conducted in late March and early April in Manitoba. Prior to these surveys, distribution records of owls covered only 16-71 per cent of their expected range in Manitoba. The degree to which the survey increased the documented range varied from no increase (6 of 12 species) up to an 88 per cent increase for the Northern Saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus). The Boreal Owl (Aegolius funereus) and Great Gray Owl (Strix nebulosa) had the second and third largest increases respectively, a result possibly enhanced by using male territorial call playback for these species. New Northern Hawk Owl (Surnia ulula), Barred Owl (Strix varia) and Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) occurrences were also obtained. This project was initiated under the auspices of the Manitoba Department of Natural Resources.

Parent Publication

• Biology and conservation of owls of the Northern Hemisphere: 2nd International symposium

Citation

Duncan, James R.; Duncan, Patricia A. 1997. Increase in distribution records of owl species in Manitoba based on a volunteer nocturnal survey using Boreal Owl (Aegolius funereus) and Great Gray Owl (Strix nebulosa) playback. In: Duncan, James R.; Johnson, David H.; Nicholls, Thomas H., eds. Biology and conservation of owls of the Northern Hemisphere: 2nd International symposium. Gen. Tech. Rep. NC-190. St. Paul, MN: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Forest Experiment Station. 519-524.