The #SpeciesOfTheWeek this week is the Northern Saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus). The Northern Saw-whet Owl is a small owl (about the size of an American Robin) that does not exhibit sexual dimorphism: both males and females are approximately 18-21 cm long, with a wingspan ranging from 42-48 cm. They have mottled brown feathering with white spots on the head and yellow eyes. Although they have a widespread distribution across North America, they are rarely seen due to their secretive nocturnal habits, and preference for dense conifers. In the spring, they can often be located by their distinctive, almost whistled “toot-toot-toot” call. The most common prey of the Northern Saw-whet Owl are deer mice, chipmunks, bats, and voles. On migration, they may supplement their diets with small birds such as chickadees and warblers.