L/BRARY Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2012 with funding from Royal Ontario Museum http://archive.org/details/hawksowlsofontarOOsnyd 31761 05013 4881 OYAL ONTARIO MUSEUh OF ZOOLOGY HANDBOOK NO. 2, REVISED EDITION The Hawks and Owls of Ontario BY L. L. SNYDER ILLUSTRATIONS BY T. M. SHORTT PUBLISHED BY Royal Ontario Museum of Zoology !947 Printed by University of Toronto Press Preface HP his handbook has been prepared as an introduction to the study of the hawks and owls of Ontario. Sections are devoted to some general consideration of the biology of these birds, including their place, role and interrelationships in nature, and to their systematic classification; a list is given of all species and subspecies that occur, or have occurred, in Ontario. Specific accounts present information relative to the distribution and numbers of each species in the province, and include such brief descriptions of plumages and behaviour as may be helpful in identifying these birds in life. Informa- tion relative to the food materials found in the examination of five hundred and eighty-two stomachs of hawks and owls taken in Ontario is presented graphically. Although this information is incomplete in certain respects it is indicative of food tendencies of most species during the period of their residence in the province. Pen-and-ink drawings of each species illustrate the text. These are the work of Mr. T. M. Shortt of the Museum's staff. Criticisms of the text and aid in food analyses, by various members of the staff, have in large measure assisted in the construction of this booklet. L. L. S. Contents Introduction 5 The Biology of the Birds of Prey ...... 7 The Place and Role of the Birds of Prey in Nature. 7 Food Competition and Diet Variation .... 10 Physical Characteristics and the Classification of Hawks and Owls 11 Hawks and Their Allies 12 A List of Ontario Species and Subspecies . 12 Owls 14 A List of Ontario Species and Subspecies . 14 Food Studies of Ontario Hawks and Owls ... 15 Descriptive Accounts of Species 17 to 47 The Hawks and Owls of Ontario INTRODUCTION /^\F the many branches of natural history none is more ^>^popular than the study of birds. It is perhaps natural that the colourful and conspicuous song birds should have attracted most attention, but to anyone who takes more than a superficial interest in birds, a knowledge of the character- istics and habits of other groups becomes necessary and equally fascinating. No group is more interesting to the serious student of nature than that of the hawks and owls. Hawks and owls are flesh-eating birds living on smaller animals captured by dint of speed, power and dexterity. Their habits are in accord with physical modifications which fit them for this way of living; naturally, they are aggressive in behaviour. With such inherent endowments no other means of life or mode of behaviour is possible to them; the swooping hawk or the stealthy owl striking down lesser forms of life is doing so for food. Because of this mode of living many people find it difficult to appreciate the birds of prey; they are regarded as pirates or outlaws in nature. However, the carnivorous element is so inherently part and parcel of the arrangement of nature that we should at all times consider carefully the justice of our aversions toward it and contemplate the probable outcome of any practical attempts we may be inclined to make toward its elimination. We are apt to misinterpret the actions of hawks and owls and also the reactions of their prey. For example, the sounds produced by animals affect us as human beings according to the kind or variety of human sentiment they appear to represent. The night call of an owl provokes in some very primitive emotions. It may suggest isolation or the dangers [5] that lurk in the dark. More sanely reflected upon, it is difficult to find in the call of an owl, apart from the possible communication of the bird with others of its kind, more than a timely warning to possible victims. A mouse or small bird may conceivably be put on the alert but it is doubtful if it experiences a protracted fear. The reactions of lesser creatures must of necessity be short lived. A bird-eating hawk may dash into the midst of a group of small birds feeding on the ground or in the bushes and capture one of them ; the other individuals are put to flight or cover, but shortly after the hawk has passed on they resume their feeding — they even resume their singing! There has been no long suffering of nervous shock. Concerning this great question of the resignation of lesser animals to natural enemies, the great French naturalist Fabre* who was gifted alike with conscience, accuracy of observation and facility of expression, said: "If each creature is what it is because it is a necessary part of the plan of the supreme Artisan who has constructed the universe, why have some the right of life and death and others only the terrible duty of immolation? Do not both obey, not the gloomy law of carnage, but a kind of sovereign and exquisite sacrifice, some sort of unconscious idea of submission to a superior and collective interest?" When the home life of the birds of prey is studied it is found that they pay the same attention to their homes as do other birds. In fact the fidelity of mated hawks to each other and to their young is known to be more firmly entrenched in their natures than is the case with many of the small song birds. From the eggs of hawks and owls tiny down-covered fledgelings are hatched which are absolutely dependent on their parents for a much longer period than in the case of most birds. The parents must bring them their natural food, guard them against their enemies, protect them from the hot sun and from rain. Food is brought regularly and offered to the helpless young with the same delicacy as would be ob- served in the case of song birds. Altogether the study of the home life of hawks and owls will be found as fascinating and as full of human interest as that of any other group of birds. Regarded from the aesthetic point of view the birds of prey compel admiration. Their colouration is usually not *LeGros, C V. Fabre, the Poet of Science. Century Co., N.Y. [6] brilliant but they exhibit delicate blendings of subdued tones, and striking patterns are frequent. The form and manner of some birds of prey have led to their use as symbols of strength and courage while others are so peculiar in their appearance as to provoke mirth. Few creatures are more striking than the golden eagle and few birds are more fascinating to observe in detail than the barn owl. It would seem that no group of birds has more dramatic appeal, or more intriguing interest bound up in their lives and forms than the birds of prey. THE BIOLOGY OF THE BIRDS OF PREY The Place and Role of the Birds of Prey in Nature To understand the place which birds of prey occupy in nature one must appreciate certain of the interdependences of different forms of life. Everyone is familiar with the fact that certain animals prey on smaller and weaker ones, but it is perhaps not so generally realized that this same principle is of universal application. The wolf eats the deer that browses on forest herbage; the lion devours the antelope that feeds on the grass of the African veldt; the fisher kills the porcupine that gnaws the bark of trees; the lynx lives on hares that feed, like the corresponding animals in the examples just cited, on vegetable matter. These are examples of food chains which are of universal occurrence in nature. But food chains fre- quently have more links than are shown by the examples given. For instance, the trout devours minnows which eat aquatic insects; these feed upon still smaller creatures which in turn eat microscopic plants in the water. Although this food chain is longer than the others, it resembles them in two respects — the ultimate food material is plant matter, and the animal at the upper end of the chain is a carnivore. Hawks and owls are the carnivores of the bird world. The rough-legged hawk eats mice which live on plants; the sharp-shinned hawk kills birds and these eat insects which live on plants; the osprey catches fish which in the last analysis depend on microscopic plant life. It will be readily appreciated that the numbers of indi- vidual animals in what may be termed the "prey group," must ordinarily be greatly in excess of the numbers in the group feeding upon them. Where there are a series of groups de- pending one upon the other for subsistence there is a tremen- (71 dous expansion of numbers from the larger to the lesser — from top to bottom. This situation has been clearly pictured by Elton, in his very interesting and valuable book on Animal Ecology* in which he points out that the numerical relation- ships of the various interdependent groups or links in these food chains may be represented by a pyramid. Applying this idea to our birds of prey we get a picture as follows: Sharp- shinned hawk Small birds _ Insects Plants From the bottom to the top of the pyramid the creatures increase in size but decrease in numbers. The rate of increase of the different species which is determined by their repro- ductive capacities as modified by the percentage of survival among the young is ordinarily so balanced in nature as to maintain this pyramid form of numbers. It has been pointed out above that the birds of prey, in common with other carnivores, occupy a very definite and pre-eminent position in the scheme of nature and we are led to vSpeculate as to the role which the carnivore plays in such a scheme. To understand this role we must remind ourselves of certain facts with reference to the numbers of living crea- tures. It is well known that most birds, mammals, insects and other forms of life tend to increase very rapidly in num- bers. For example, mice have several young at a litter and usually several litters a year. Birds do not reproduce so rapidly, but if all the young which are hatched reached maturity and reproduced in their turn, the earth would soon be congested with birds. What actually happens under normal conditions is that the numerical abundance of birds, insects and other creatures remains moderately uniform. From a single pair of parents of a species maintaining a level of num- bers, only two offspring, on the average, reach maturity and reproduce in their turn ; all of the others perish. The principal factors which tend to level off populations are storms and severe weather, carnivores, parasites, disease and accidents. *Animal Ecology by Chas. Elton. Macmillan Co., 1927. 18] If it were not for the persistent action of these destructive forces each species would go on increasing until ultimately it had eaten all available food, resulting in death by starvation. Various species of insects from time to time break away from the control of natural enemies and multiply at an alarming rate. They sometimes denude trees of their leaves and devastate field crops over wide areas but ultimately a deple- tion of food results in their starvation, or so reduces their vitality that they perish from disease or disorders closely akin to disease. Another example of the attainment of extra- ordinary numbers is afforded by the varying hare of the north woods. Periodically the hares become very numerous and then some malady spreads among them and reduces their numbers almost to the vanishing point. Throughout the ages, by a kind of trial and error process, nature has evolved a safe and steady counterforce which works against the suicidal expansion that is potential in all species. An important factor in this counterforce is the carnivore. Birds of prey, for example, are a much safer means of controlling numbers than starvation or disease because there is always the danger that these scourges may wipe out a species entirely. Carnivores do not exterminate the species on which they prey. If their prey becomes very scarce they too cease to flourish since they cannot exist in numbers dis- proportionate to their food. Man is the only predator at all likely to exterminate a species. Another feature of the carnivore-prey relationship concerns the physical stamina of the prey as a result of continuous attack by natural enemies. It is evident that the birds of prey feed upon the most easily available natural food. This not only concerns the quantity of food available but the ease of capture of individuals. The individual which is least alert or is impeded by physical ills or deformities becomes the most likely prey for the carnivore. As a consequence, on the average, the carnivore eliminates the unfit and leaves the best to reproduce. Biologically, the role of the bird of prey is an important one. While one's sympathies are naturally aroused by the thought or sight of smaller creatures being devoured by larger ones there is no escaping the situation that the vast majority of birds and other animals brought forth each year must be eliminated by some agency. That agency whose force is consistent with the periodic need for elimination and which [9] contributes toward the maintenance of a high state of physical stamina of the prey is unquestionably the best. With reference to this aspect of nature, the great Darwin has said: "When we reflect on this struggle, we may console ourselves with the full belief that the war of nature is not incessant, that no fear is felt, that death is generally prompt and that the vigorous, the healthy and the happy survive and multiply." Food Competition and Diet Variation A consideration of the food habits of the birds of prey illustrates another interesting fact of very general application in nature, namely, that creatures of the same general habit avoid direct competition in the matter of food. Hawks illustrate this feature particularly well. The marsh hawk hunts over marshes or muskegs, the red-tailed hawk over fields and open woods, the broad-winged hawk in the evergreen forests of the north and the red-shouldered hawk in the broad-leaved forests of the south. These examples illustrate territorial and geographic segregation. A further avoidance of competition is attained by the natural selection of different items of diet. The osprey may live in the forest with the broad-winged hawk, but it feeds exclusively on fish,, an item not taken by the latter; the sparrow hawk feeds in the open but it subsists to a great extent on insects, conse- quently it does not seriously compete with the red-tailed hawk which feeds chiefly on larger animals. Even in the case of two species with similar food-habits whose ranges overlap, there is a reduction of competition due to disparity of size. The Cooper's hawk and the sharp-shinned hawk are examples of this. The latter, being small, naturally feeds on smaller prey. Direct competition is further avoided between hawks and owls since the former hunt by day and the latter largely at dusk or at night. Although there are rather fixed limits to the list of items normally taken by most species, the range of acceptable food is sufficiently wide to assure each species a supply. Generally speaking a hawk or an owl feeds, at any given time or place, on the lesser forms of life which are most plentiful and con- sequently most easily procured. During migration these birds find themselves under conditions quite different from those [10] of their nesting grounds. The goshawk, for example, may feed chiefly on grouse and hares while in the north woods, but when it moves southwards where these species are scarce or absent it naturally turns to the available food which is most nearly like them, such as poultry and pigeons. The sharp-shinned hawk which feeds largely on native warblers and sparrows in summer, quite naturally includes in its diet the imported English sparrow wThen it migrates through settled sections of the province where this sparrow is plentiful. This change of food habits is largely a matter of varying the proportions of acceptable items of diet under force of circum- stances. Conversely, no species on which carnivorous birds prey is subject to a continuous attack unless its numerical status permits of it. Consequently an immunity from attack results in the upwTard tilt of that ever- wavering ''balance of nature" which is never balanced. PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND THE CLASSIFICATION OF HAWKS AND OWLS Our modern system of classification attempts to arrange animals in an orderly series which reflects relationships and degree of development. All related groups cannot be satis- factorily joined together in a straight linear arrangement such as is mechanically enforced on us in the pages of a book since gaps are present through the extinction of many animals and also because, in nature, there was no such thing as a continu- ous chain of links in sequence and without branches. Classi- fication, however, attempts to join the various groups in such a way as to result in as few breaks as possible. Although hawks and owls exhibit certain anatomical similarities their differences are sufficiently great to require that they be placed in separate orders. In the case of the owls their affinities with the nightjars are sufficiently pro- nounced as to be best expressed by associating these groups rather closely together in a linear arrangement. This arrange- ment leaves several orders intervening between the diurnal and nocturnal birds of prey. Popularly they are associated together because of similar modifications of their beaks and [ii] talons but these similarities are perhaps more properly con- sidered as examples of convergent evolution. Hawks and Their Allies Hawks and their allies (order Falconiformes) form a fairly natural assemblage of flesh-eating birds which are mostly active by day. Their interrelationships are largely reflected in anatomical features which are not of a superficial character, but similarities are readily observed in their exterior form. As distinct from the owls, their feathers are rather firm and closely knit, giving the plumage a more compact appearance. Their power of sight is highly developed. The eyes are directed laterally and are more or less shielded above by a protecting brow. This feature produces the well-known, keen, "hawk-eyed" expression. The usual position of their toes is three directed forward, and one backward. The eggs of hawks are as a rule pale in colour, sometimes sparsely or closely marked with reddish-brown. No order of birds exhibits as wide a diversity and as great a development of the various types of flight as do the hawks and hawk-allies. From the long-sustained soaring of the turkey vulture — which may be watched from horizon to horizon without a noticeable wing-beat — to the bullet-like swoop of the duck hawk — which demonstrates the greatest speed developed by any bird in a limited distance — these birds are pre-eminent masters of flight. The physical organization of hawks led the early naturalists to place them at the head of the avian class, a position which is now conceded to the song birds. Hawks undoubtedly exhibit a state of mechanical perfection unequalled so far as their mode of living is con- cerned. A List of Ontario Species and Subspecies ORDER FALCONIFORMES Suborder Cathartae FAMILY CATHARTI DAE— Large, carrion-eating birds of the New World with nearly naked heads; nostrils without a separating interior partition; wings long; hind toes attached slightly above the level of the fore toes; claws not strongly hooked. 1. Turkey Vulture, Cathartes aura Subspecies, septentrionalis [12] SUBORDER FALCONES SUPERFAMILY FALCONOIDEA FAMILY ACCIPITRIDAE— Small to large birds of prey, the majority with fully feathered heads; nostrils with a separating interior partition and agreeing in other characteristics of the skull; hind toes attached on a level with the fore toes; claws strongly hooked. 2. Swallow- tailed Kite, Elanoides forficatus. Subspecies, forficatus 3. Goshawk, Accipitcr gentilis. Subspecies, atricapillus 4. Sharp-shinned Hawk, Accipitcr striatus Subspecies, velox 5. Cooper's Hawk, Accipitcr cooperii 6. Red-tailed Hawk, Bute ojamaicensis Subspecies, borealis calurus* krideri\ 7. Red-shouldered Hawk, Buteo lineatus Subspecies, lineatus 8. Broad-winged Hawk, Buteo platypterus Subspecies, platypterus 9. Swainson's Hawk, Buteo swainsoni 10. Rough-legged Hawk, Buteo lagopus 11. Golden Eagle, Aquila chrysaetos 12. Bald Eagle, Haliaeetus leucocephalus 13. Marsh Hawk, Circus cyaneus Subspecies, s.johannis Subspecies, canadensis Subspecies, washingtoniensis Subspecies, hudsonius FAMILY PANDIONIDAE — Large, long-winged, fish-eating birds; plumage oily, with a characteristic odour; tarsi reticulate; soles of the feet with horny spikes; outer toes versatile; claws large, circular, ungrooved beneath and of uniform length. 14. Osprey, Pandion haliaetus Subspecies, carolinensis FAMILY FALCONIDAE — Small to medium-sized birds of prey agreeing par- ticularly in anatomical features of the skull, which distinguish them from other hawks and hawk-like birds. The family cannot be defined by superficial characteristics. 1 5 . C aracara , Polyborus cheriway J 16. Gyrfalcon, Falco rusticolus 17. Peregrine Falcon, Falco peregrinus 18. Pigeon Hawk, Falco columbarius 19. Sparrow Hawk, Falco sparverius Subspecies, probably audubonii Subspecies, obsoletus Subspecies, anatum Subspecies, columbarius% Subspecies, sparverius ♦Five existing Ontario specimens are referable to this form which has been recorded from the province by Saunders, Auk, 5: 205 and Samuel, Auk, 17: 386. tA specimen compared with the type and identifiable as this form has been recorded by Fleming, Auk, 30: 227. ^Recorded by Brown, Auk, 10: 304, on the basis of a specimen taken near Port Arthur. Specimen now lost. §The record of F. c. richardsonii, by Chamberlain, Cat. Can. Birds, 1887, p. 60, is here rejected. [13] Owls The owls (order Strigiformes) form a remarkably homogene- ous group of carnivorous birds which are chiefly active at night or at dusk. Although they resemble hawks in certain superficial characters, a careful comparison shows them to be markedly dissimilar to that group even in many of their external characters. Their plumage is as a whole soft and fluffy and their large eyes are directed forward. The set of the eyes, together with a disc of flat feathers surrounding them, give to these birds the ' 'owl-faced" appearance which is fam- iliar to everyone. Their sense of hearing is highly developed. The outer toes are reversible, making it natural for two to be directed forward and two backward. The eggs of owls are invariably white and spheroidal in shape. The most remarkable characteristic of owls in general is their ability to hunt their prey at dusk or at night. Since they subsist entirely on living prey which as a rule must be closely approached before it is detected, a noiseless flight is essential. The softness of their feathers, particularly those of the wings, effectually prevents sound and makes possible a stealthy, ghost-like flight. A List of Ontario Species and Subspecies ORDER STRIGIFORMES FAMILY TYTONIDAE — Medium-sized nocturnal birds of prey with relatively small eyes; facial disc heart-shaped; edge of middle claw incised into squarish teeth. 1. Barn Owl, T^o a/k Subspecies, pratincola FAMILY STRIGIDAE — Variously sized nocturnal birds of prey with relatively large eyes; facial disc rounded; no toothed claws; a curious asymmetry of the bony structure in the external ears in several representatives. 2. Screech Owl, Otus asio Subspecies, naevius* 3. Horned Owl, Bubo virginianus Subspecies, virginianus^ wapacuthu heterocnemis 4. Snowy Owl, Nyctea scandiaca ♦The race O. a. aikeni is to be expected sparingly in western Ontario, Snyder, Trans. Roy. Can. Inst. 22: 190. \Bubo virginianus occidentalis, the Montana Horned Owl, is recognized by the 1931 edition of the A.O.U. Check List, as occupying the region of Minnesota westward. Speci- mens'referable to this race should be found in adjacent parts of Ontario (Rainy River, etc.). [14] 5. Hawk Owl, Surnia ulula Subspecies, caparoch 6. Barred Owl, Strix varia Subspecies, varia 7. Great Gray Owl, Strix nebulosa Subspecies, nebulosa 3. Long-eared Owl, Asio otus Subspecies, wilsonianus 9. Short-eared Owl, Asio flammeus Subspecies, flammeus 10. Tengmalm's Owl, Aegolius funereus Subspecies, richardsoni 11. Saw-whet Owl, Aegolius acadicus Subspecies, acadiais FOOD STUDIES OF ONTARIO HAWKS AND OWLS The food graphs presented in this booklet are based on records of stomach content analyses in the Royal Ontario Museum of Zoology. The percentages of the various food items identified in each individual stomach were carefully estimated by bulk during the examination. In combining the results of all examinations for each species, an arbitrary group- ing of food materials was made which will aid the reader in forming an opinion as to whether the food habits of a par- ticular kind of hawk or owl conflicts with man's interests. For example, the remains of wild birds identified in stomach contents have been classified into two groups, those protected by law in Ontario and those not legally protected. Poultry constitutes still another category of birds eaten. Although we can be sure that birds of prey make no food choice on the basis of man's laws, these laws indicate man's interests. If we assume that man's interests are paramount — that we have the prerogative to condemn or acquit other creatures that live according to natural law, and that there are no extenuations even though the predator is virtually "baited" to the farm yard by unprotected poultry — there is still great difficulty in establishing a full and fair economic valuation on a hawk or an owl. For example, it is an established fact, and well known, that meadow mice girdle and destroy young orchard trees and that deer mice consume and foul cereal grains. This booklet, and many other similar studies, estab- lishes the fact that several species of owls and certain hawks destroy these mice regularly and in quantity. If we search no further for facts we can regard these birds of prey as strictly beneficial. But if our economic accounting is more complete [15] and thorough we will find that the food animals — mice — are assets in some respects. Mice are important staple foods of valuable fur-bearing animals, and they destroy weed seeds and noxious insects. Of course, we must decide what is a weed and what is a noxious insect! Thus, the book-keeping of economic evaluation becomes more and more complex. For the most part, a study of the food habits of a certain bird can produce quantitative information, but precise and complete economic evaluation is impossible. If we must judge rather than measure, then the writer suggests that we can more adequately judge as to the desirability or undesirability of an individual bird at a given time and place than we can for a species throughout the year and over its whole range. It should not be overlooked that there are real values in wildlife which are not economic and which cannot be meas- ured quantitatively. Most people would admit that the familiar robin has a value but if evaluation is based on its food habits alone, it cannot be graded high. Robins raid the cherry orchard ; they consume earthworms in quantity — these creatures are important in mixing and fertilizing the soil and in making it pervious to air and water. Do we not value the robin most for its song, for its moderate and flattering famil- iarity, for its very being? How can these things be given economic and quantitative values? How many songs equal a quart of cherries? What is the dollars-and-cents value of the sight of a soaring eagle, or the wise look of an owl? Some additions have been made to the food studies of hawks and owls in this revised reprint. As in the first edition, information is still lacking or inadequate relative to certain species. It is a sad commentary to make, but shortly after the appearance of the original edition of this booklet, which was intended to aid in a better understanding of carnivorous birds, all protection was removed from all hawks and owls in the Province of Ontario. This was definitely a retrograde step. The only correction made subsequently is that protection has been restored to "ospreys and eagles." Ontario laws now exclude from protection, hawks ("which word shall not be interpreted to include ospreys and eagles"), owls, crows, cow- birds, blackbirds (grackles), starlings and house sparrows. Although the common feral pigeon is not mentioned and thus might appear to be protected, it is not legally regarded as a "wild bird." [16] Descriptive Accounts of Species TURKEY VULTURE Length* — approx. 30 inches Spread* — approx. 70 inches This is the only vulture which occurs in Ontario. It is essentially a bird of more southern regions but it appears fairly regularly in southern Ontario north to Georgian Bay, and in Rainy River and southwestern Kenora Dis- tricts of western Ontario. However, it is not common in this, the northern part of its range. Its plumage is nearly black and the bare skin of the head is red. In flight the borders of the wings beneath the flight feathers appear grey when the bird is within moderate range. The bill is white, forming a conspicuous field mark even at a dis- tance at which the characteristically naked head cannot be perceived. The marvellous soaring flight of this bird is ob- served at its best on sunny or windy days. A vulture may be in sight for an hour or more without a single wingbeat being noted by the observer. The species is also known as the "Turkey Buzzard." The food of this species is entirely CARRION AS SHOWN BY STUDIES MADE ELSEWHERE No stomachs examined. ♦The measurements given in the following accounts are the average for the two sexes and were taken as follows: length, from tip of bill to end of longest tail feather: spread, from tip to tip of outstretched wings. [18] SWALLOW-TAILED KITE Length — approx. 24 inches Spread — approx. 47 inches This hawk is a tropical and subtropical species which has occurred so rarely in northern latitudes as to render the chance of observing it in Ontario highly improbable. It has been noted in the province but such occurrences can only be considered as accidental. The curious long, forked tail of this hawk gives a rather false impression of its size. However, a casual observer would readily identify the bird because of the shape of the tail, together with the contrasting black and white colour pattern. In flight it is said to be extraordinarily graceful. It spends most of its time on the wing, and due to its form and flight, it is said to resemble a gigantic swallow. The food of this species is composed of snakes, frogs and large insects according to studies made elsewhere No stomachs examined. U9] GOSHAWK Length — approx. 22 inches Spread — approx. 44 inches The goshawk is rare in Ontario except in the autumn of certain years when it migrates southward. If it becomes conspicuous at such times it is partially due to its bold- ness. The goshawk may be distinguished from most other hawks of similar size by its long tail and rounded wings which are regularly barred below. Adults appear rather uniformly blue-grey at a dis- tance but at close range it may be observed that they are finely barred below and that areas through the eyes and on the top of the head are slaty black. Immatures are brown above and buffy white below, streaked with brown. They are frequently indistinguish- able from immatures of Cooper's hawk in the field. The flight of the goshawk is swift and usually direct but at times it is wavering. The species frequently ventures about open cul- tivated land and even about cities during its migrations. ORIGIN OF 15 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 9 WERE EMPTY Locality No. King Tp., York Co 4 Lobo Tp., Middlesex Co.... 2 Pt. Sydney, Muskoka Dist.. 3 Ravenshoe, York Co 1 Toronto, York Co 3 Wiarton, Bruce Co 1 "Ontario" 1 Mth. No. Jan. 0 Feb. 1 Mar. 0 Apr. 0 May 0 June 0 July 0 Aug. 0 Sept. 1 Oct. 5 Nov. 8 Dec. 0 The above graph is largely based on the results of the examination of specimens taken in the fall in settled sections of the province. The high percentage of poultry taken by the goshawk shows the necessity of guarding against it during its occasional visits to cul- tivated areas in the south. [20] SHARP-SHINNED HAWK Length — approx. 12 inches Spread — approx. 23 inches This little hawk is a rather scarce summer resident of wooded parts of Ontario, occurring more regularly in the north. In the autumn it mi- grates southward, concen- trating in large numbers in extreme southern Ontario, probably from vast areas of Ontario and Quebec. Adults are dark slaty grey above and cross- barred below with whitish and reddish brown. Immatures are dark brown above and whitish be- low, streaked with brown. The small size and relatively long tail which is nearly square at the end aid in identifying this hawk in the field. In summer it is usually found in thick woods where its flight, usually at low elevations, consists of a series of rapid wing- beats alternated with sailing. Its progress is rapid and shift- ing as it sweeps in and out among the trees and bushes. On migrations it usually frequents wooded sections but occasion- ally it ventures into open territory where its flight is more direct. lip ORIGIN OF 72 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 18 WERE EMPTY Locality No. Cobourg, Northumberland Co 1 Kingsville, Essex Co 44 King Tp., York Co 1 Lobo Tp., Middlesex Co.... 3 London Tp., Middlesex Co. 1 Long Point, Norfolk Co.... 1 Lowbush, Cochrane Dist 1 Orient Bay, Thunder Bay Dist 1 Pickering, Ontario Co 6 Point Pelee, Essex Co 7 Pt. Sydney, Muskoka Dist.. 1 Rondeau, Kent Co 1 Toronto, York Co 4 Mth. Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May- June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. No. This graph is indicative of the food of the sharp-shinned hawk throughout the province and for the complete seasons of its residence here. This is unquestionaly a bird-eating species, consuming both protected and unprotected small birds according to the supply. [21] COOPER'S HAWK Length — approx. 17 inches Spread — approx. 30 inches Cooper's hawk is a rather scarce inhabitant of southern Ontario in summer, ranging northward only to the fringe of » %jwi i! «*m. the vast evergreen forests of the north. During the autumn migration when this species concentrates in the extreme southern part of the province it appears to be fairly num- erous. Cooper's hawk is like a large edition of the sharp- shinned hawk, adults and im- matures resembling corres- ponding ages of that species. This species, however, has a perceptibly rounded tail which, together with its large size, aids in distinguishing it. Large immature females seldom can be differentiated from immature males of the goshawk in the field. The flight of Cooper's hawk is swift. While hunting it* sweeps about among the trees, usually not far from the ground, directing its course this way and that, apparently according to the possibilities of the cover. Its flight in the open, where it frequently ventures, is more direct and is characterized by alternate flapping and sailing. ORIGIN OF 20 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 7 WERE EMPTY Locality No. Mth. No. Bowmanville, Durham Co.. 1 King Tp., York Co 1 Kingsville, Essex Co 14 Lobo Tp., Middlesex Co.... 1 Off Lake, Rainy River Dist. 1 Pt. Sydney, Muskoka Dist. 1 Rainy River, Rainy River Dist 1 Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. Ma\ June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. The above graph is based on the examination of specimens from various parts of the range of Cooper's hawk in Ontario, and from most of the months of the year and therefore probably represents the average food habits of this species. Birds, including poultry, are its chief food, the latter being a more notable item in the fall during migration. [22] RED-TAILED HAWK Length — approx. 23 inches Spread — approx. 50 inches This large picturesque hawk is becoming very scarce in Ontario. Although it ranges well northward it is more to be expected in southern Ontario. Here, the reduction of wooded areas has created conditions adverse to it. Typical adults have bright, reddish-brown tails and a sparse belt of dark spots across the lower part of the white under parts. Im- matures have the tails barred with dark- and light-grey- brown and the belt on their white underparts is more con- spicuous. The soaring flight of the red-tail on sunny and windy days may carry it over open country and woodland alike. Seen on the wing the relative shortness and broadness of the tail is noticeable as is also the rounded shape of the wings. The cry, a long-drawn, hissing whistle, is often heard from adults in summer. Red- taiis rarely winter in the province. They migrate southward in circling and soaring bands. ORIGIN OF 28 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 6 WERE EMPTY Locality No. Kingsville, Essex Co 6 Little Lake, Simcoe Co 1 Lobo Tp., Middlesex Co... 1 London Tp., Middlesex Co. 1 Long Point, Norfolk. Co 1 Plover Mills, Middlesex Co. 1 Point Pelee, Essex Co 1 Pt. Sydney, Muskoka Dist.. 2 Rainy River, Rainv River Dist 1 Toronto, York Co 13 Mth. No. Jan. 1 Feb. 3 Mar. 0 Apr. 1 May 2 June 0 July 1 Aug. 0 Sept. 1 Oct. 9 Nov. 8 Dec. 2 The notable feature of the diet of the red-tailed hawk, as shown by the above graph is its variety. Although the specimens examined in this study were from cultivated sec- tions of the province and were not as numerous as might have been desired, the results suggest that the species seldom interferes with man's interests. [23] RED-SHOULDERED HAWK Length — approx. 21 inches Spread — approx. 40 inches Like the red-tail, this hawk is becoming scarce in the province, although it may be somewhat more numerous than __ _ that species. It frequents old woods of a type which is rem- nant in southern Ontario. Northward, beyond culti- vated sections, it occurs rarely. Adults are colourfully marked below with closely arranged cross-bars of tawny reddish brown and white. Above, they are largely dark brown. The chestnut "shoul- ders" are rarely visible at a distance. Their tails are strongly barred with broad dark, and narrow white bands. Immatures especially, re- semble the broad-winged hawk, but the summer ranges of the two scarcely overlap. They are more generally streaked below than young red-tails. This hawk frequently soars ; its flapping flight, usually under forest cover, is somewhat sluggish and not protracted. Its call is a prolonged, squealing "keeoooo." A few individuals occasionally winter in southern Ontario. ORIGIN OF 12 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 2 WERE EMPTY Locality No. Mth. No. Columbus, Ontario Co 1 Jan. 0 Concord, York Co ' 1 Feb. 0 Lobo Tp., Middlesex Co... 1 Mar. 1 London Tp., Middlesex Co. 3 Apr. 4 Plover Mills, Middlesex Co. 1 May 1 Port Hope, Durham Co 1 June 3 Toronto, York Co 3 July 0 Windsor, Essex Co 1 Aug. 0 Sept. 0 Oct. I Nov. 1 Dec. 1 The food of the red-shouldered hawk as suggested by the above graph would present a difficult problem if a purely economic valuation were attempted. The various items eaten by this species include animals ordinarily considered destructive to man's crops and stores as well as some which are economic allies: still others may be considered neutral since they affect man very indirectly. [24] BROAD-WINGED HAWK Length — approx. 18 inches Spread — approx. 35 inches This species is fairly common in the north woods in summer. It rarely occurs in cultivated sections of the pro- vince except on migration. Adults are dark brown above; below they are rather coarsely cross-barred with brown or reddish-brown and white. Im- matures are similar to adults above but below they are streaked rather generally with heavy, brown markings sim- ilar to those of the red-shoul- dered hawk. The broad- winged hawk may be ob- served soaring above the forest or flying low through the forest or about clearings. Its call is a prolonged, whistled "kiteeee," high in pitch and somewhat hissing in quality. The species migrates in groups which are sufficiently compact in the fall to be termed flocks. The circling and soaring of the individuals within the flock forms a maze within the more direct course of the flock as a whole. ORIGIN OF 23 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 4 WERE EMPTY Locality Guelph, Wellington Co 1 Havelock, Peterborough Co. 1 Kingsville, Essex Co. Lobo Tp.. Middlesex Co... London Tp., Middlesex Co. Lowbush, Cochrane Dist Macdiarmid, Thunder Bay Dist Pickering, Ontario Co Point Pelee, Essex Co Pt. Sydney, Muskoka Dist.. Strathroy, Middlesex Co Toronto, York Co Mth. No. Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Line July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. No date The above graph, which is based on the examination of specimens taken from many sections and during most of the time the species is a resident of the province, presents a fairly accurate picture of the proportions and items of diet of the broad-winged hawk. Even those specimens taken on migration through cultivated sections of Ontario were found not to interfere with man's economic interests. [25] SWAINSON'S HAWK Length — approx. 20 inches Spread — approx. 48 inches This hawk is only of accidental occurrence in Ontario and its appearance has been mostly noted during fall migration periods. There are at least two distinct colour phases of the adult stage of Swainson's hawk, viz. : a light and a dark phase, but numerous inter- mediates occur. Immatures form a rather distinct buffy type. In size and habits the species is similar to our other soaring hawks, more particu- larly the red-tailed hawk. In all but the black phase it would be distinguishable from the others by the clustering of brownish markings or the even dark tone across the upper breast. The dark phase resembles a dark rough-legged hawk, but is smaller. However, the buffy immature plumage is most apt to be observed in birds occurring in Ontario. The species is normally a prairie bird and its status in Ontario has probably never been very different from what it is today. The food of this species is largely made up of small mammals and large insects according to studies made elsewhere No stomachs examined. [261 ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK Length — approx. 22 inches Spread — approx. 52 inches This Arctic hawk is a regular fall migrant in Ontario and sometimes it occurs as a fairly plentiful winter resident of southern sections. It is rarely observed in spring and is not known to nest in the province. Two distinct colour phases are exhibited, viz. : a dark and a light phase, but some indi- viduals show intermediate plumages. The large size of the rough-leg, together with a considerable amount of black below, the white base of the tail and the pronounced black spots at the wrist of the underwing, aid in distinguish- r^#&>. ing the lighter phases from other hawks in the field. The dark phase is almost completely sooty black. The legs are feather- ed to the base of the toes. On migration the rough-leg fre- quents marshes. In hunting it flies low, at times hovering over promising spots. Rough-legs migrate in fall in scattered bands, or individually, sometimes soaring and sometimes with direct flight. ORIGIN OF 58 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 6 WERE EMPTY Locality No. Lobo Tp., Middlesex Co... 2 Peninsula Harbour, Thunder Bay Dist 1 Toronto, York Co 21 Windsor, Essex Co 1 "Ontario" 33 Mth. No. Jan. 0 Feb. 0 Mar. 0 Apr. 0 May 0 June 0 July 0 Aug. 0 Sept. 0 Oct. 5 Nov. 21 Dec. 0 "Fall" 31 The above graph shows that the rough-legged hawk is an inveterate mouser during its fall migrations through Ontario. Few hawks have as unvaried a diet as this species and according to the examinations on which the graph is based it does not interfere with man'a interests. [27] GOLDEN EAGLE Length — approx. 30 inches Spread — approx. 84 inches Except as a straggling wanderer during fall and winter, the golden eagle is rare in Ontario. There are a few reports of it nesting in the province which appear to be valid. The spe- cies is largely confined to the mountain country of western North America and the far north. Few of the birds seen in Ontario are fully adult. On the wing they would appear completely dark brown, al- most black, but at closer range the feathers of the hind- neck are seen to be golden brown. A basal area of light mottled markings is concealed by the tail coverts. Immatures show the basal half of the tail white and a perceptible light area beneath the wrists of the wings. The most certain character for distinguishing this species from the bald eagle at any age is the possession of com- pletely feathered legs. In the golden eagle light brown feath- ers cover the whole of the legs, to the base of the toes. 3u ,^-^^@4 ORIGIN OF 6 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 2 WERE EMPTY Locality No. Mth. No. Grassy Narrows, Kenora Dist 1 Loon, Thunder Bay Dist... 2 Redditt, Kenora Dist 1 Walkingshaw L. (25 miles N. Port Arthur) 1 Whitney 1 Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Although stomach content analyses seldom reveal whether the foods eaten were carrion or "kill," and it is known from other studies that this species will capture its own fare, cir- cumstantial evidence leads to the interpretation that is shown jn the graph. 28] BALD EAGLE Length — approx. 32 inches Spread — approx. 80 inches Although this species is widely distributed throughout the province in summer, it has become so scarce as to make the sight of it an unusual experi- ence. Adults may be distin- guished on the wing by their large size and dark brown colour with white head and tail. Immatures resemble the golden eagle although their general brown colour is more broken by irregular light markings. The legs of the bald eagle are not feathered to the toes. The species was formerly to be expected about the many large bodies of water in the province — the Great Lakes and the larger lakes of the north — but there is now only an occasional pair left in the more remote places or where protection is afforded them. In winter these eagles are forced to move to situations where water femains open. They consequently appear not infre- quently in the settled parts of the province in the fall and winter. ORIGIN OF 6 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 2 WERE EMPTY Locality No. Mth. No. Aldershot 1 Jan. 0 East Bay, L. Nipigon 1 Feb. 0 Highland Creek 1 Mar. 0 Maiden Twp., Essex Co.... 1 Apr. 0 Meadow-vale 1 May 0 Port Stanley 1 June July 0 1 Aug. 0 Sept. 1 Oct. 0 Nov. 2 Dec. 2 Studies made elsewhere and field observations lead to the interpretation that the food animals of all classes shown in the graph were carrion, or cripples. [29] MARSH HAWK Length — approx. 19 inches Spread — approx. 45 inches This is one of our commonest hawks. It nests about marshy areas in the south and open muskegs in the north. Its long tail and pointed wings together with its white rump are diagnostic. The light blue-gray back and black wing-tips of adult males give them a gull-like appear- ance on the wing. Adult fe- males are brown above; their underparts buff, streaked with brown. Immatures re- semble adult females but are less streaked and richer brown below. This hawk has a slight development of a facial disc similar to that of owls. In hunting, marsh hawks fly fairly close to the ground, coursing back and forth over marsh or muskeg or along meadow creeks and grassy fields. Now and then they hover, perhaps drop out of sight in the grass, to rise again and flap onward, swaying this way and that, ever on the lookout below. Occasionally individuals winter in southern Ontario. ORIGIN OF 27 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 2 WERE EMPTY Locality No. Mth. No. Bowmanville, Durham Co.. 1 Concord, York Co 2 Hallowell, Prince Edward Co 1 King Tp., York Co 1 Kingsville, Essex Co 10 Lobo Tp., Middlesex Co... 1 London Tp., Middlesex Co. 1 Long Point, Norfolk Co 2 Rednersville, Prince Edward Co 1 Snelgrove, Peel Co 1 Toronto, York Co 6 Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. The material on which the above graph is based represents ten months of the year, but geographically it concerns only southern Ontario. Poultry forms an appreciable per- centage of the marsh hawk's diet. It may therefore be necessary to guard against this species under circumstances such a9 about poultry farms. [30] OSPREY Length — approx. 23 inches Spread — approx. 65 inches This large "fish hawk" occurs sparingly over most of the province, more particularly about the lake country of the north. It is rare in southern Ontario except on migration, although it formerly occupied the shores of the lower Great Lakes. Its magnificent wing- spread gives it an especially picturesque appearance and often leads to its being mis- taken for an eagle. Ospreys are largely dark brown above and white below with an in- conspicuous belt of brown spots across the breast. A large amount of white on the head is usually visible at a distance. The species hunts at a considerable elevation over the shallow waters of bays and lakes. After hovering to locate its elusive quarry, it dives through the air and into the water, feet extended forward at the last instant. When our northern lakes freeze over the osprey is forced to migrate southward. -«. ^:^ ORIGIN OF 16 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH fi WERE EMPTY Locality No. Mth. No. Cedar Creek, Kingsville.. Cherry Valley, P.E. Co... Colborne Dunbarton 2 Fort Severn Ghost River, L. Abitibi. . L. Attawapiskat Maclennan Meaford Orient Bay, L. Nipigon... Plover Mills Point Pelee Port Hope Roche's Pt., L. Simcoe Vittoria Ian. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. The few specimens whose stomach content examinations are represented by the above graph are insufficient to give an adequate idea of the variety of fish eaten by the osprey but they indicate that the kinds taken are largely those of little or no direct value to man. 131] CARACARA Length — approx. 22 inches Spread — approx. 48 inches This species is normally of southern distribution, occurring in tropical and subtropical regions of North America. It is included among the hawks of Ontario on the basis of a single record which was con- sidered as the accidental oc- currence of a storm-blown in- dividual. Adults are black- bodied birds with white necks graded into the body colour by dark barring. Their tails are white with numerous dusky bars, the terminal one being broad. Immatures have the black areas replaced by brown, the breast and neck streaked, not barred. On the wing this species is said to be curiously stiff and angular in its appearance due to its long wings and contrasting colour pat- tern. It is the national bird of Mexico. The opportunity of seeing it in Ontario is highly improbable. The food of this species is largely carrion, although it also takes live mammals, fish and reptiles according to studies made elsewhere No stomachs examined, [32] GYRFALCON Length — approx. 23 inches Spread — approx. 49 inches This beautiful bird is a resident of the treeless Arctic, seldom venturing into settled sections. It is only of very casual occurrence in southern Ontario, in fall and winter. Various colour phases are re- cognized, one being largely white, with some dark cross- spotting above and a slight spotting below. Another is a dark, slaty phase and indi- viduals exhibit intermediate plumages. Like all falcons, it has strong, pointed wings and is capable of swift, dashing flight. In its Arctic home it frequents the barren, rocky cliffs on the sea. Little can be said of it as regards the ter- ritory of Ontario except that it is probably not infrequent in occurrence in the extreme north in winter. An observer in settled parts of the province will indeed be fortunate if he ever observes the species. The food of this species is largely birds and mammals which frequent the vicinity of its arctic habitat according to studies made elsewhere No stomachs examined. I33J PEREGRINE FALCON Length — approx. 18 inches Spread — approx. 43 inches f W Only an occasional pair of peregrine falcons is to be found throughout the extent of our province. The characteristic habitat of this species is about isolated cliffs high up over the shores of lakes, or on prominences dominating some flat valley. Fully adult birds have a black cap and "moustache," and are bluish- grey above and whitish or pinkish buff marked with dark brown below, except on the throat and upper breast. Immature birds are similar, although somewhat browner above, while below they are light buff heavily streaked with brown. The flight of this hawk is considered to be one of the most remarkable demon- strations of speed and manoeuvering among birds. It usually sights its prey while proceeding at high speed and folding its relatively long, pointed wings fairly close to its body, it drops upon its quarry like a meteor. The species migrates south in winter, usually frequenting lake shores en route. ORIGIN OF 9 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 2 WERE EMPTY Locality No. Mth. No. Canboro 1 Jan. 0 Jarvis Bluffs, James Bay.. 4 Feb. 0 Point Pelee 2 Mar. 0 Redwing 1 Apr. 0 Ship Sands Is., James Bay. 1 May 1 June 0 July 0 Aug. 0 Sept. 1 Oct. 7 Nov. 0 Dec. 0 Although the number of stomachs examined is insufficient to show much of the range of diet of this rare falcon, it is evident that it is essentially a bird eater, taking the kinds available in wild, open country. [34! PIGEON HAWK Length — appro*. 11 inches Spread — approx. 25 inches With the exception of the sparrow hawk, this is the most common of our falcons. It occurs sparingly throughout the northern forests in summer and appears as a migrant in southern Ontario, particular- ly along lake shores in spring and fall. It has the sturdy build and pointed wings char- acteristic of falcons and in size can only be confused with the sparrow hawk. Its manner and colour, however, are distinctive. Adult males are dark, slaty blue above and tawny below streaked with brown except on the throat which is white. Their tails are dark, barred with a light gray. Immatures and females are similar to males except that they are notably darker above. The weight of this falcon is not sufficient to give it the impetus for bullet-like swoops but it is a swift and dashing flyer, appearing somewhat like a pigeon in flight. **L-*«tor ORIGIN OF 13 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH NONE WAS EMPTY Locality-' No. Mth. No. Barrie, Simcoe Co 1 Kingsville, Essex Co 1 Lowbush, Cochrane Dist 2 Orient Bay, Thunder Bay Dist 3 Jan. 0 Feb. 0 Mar. 0 Apr. 0 May 0 Point Pelee, Essex Co 1 Rondeau, Kent Co 1 Toronto, York Co 2 White Sand River, Thunder Bay Dist 1 Windigo Bav, Thunder Bay Dist 1 June 0 July 7 Aug. 1 Sept. 5 Oct. 0 Nov. 0 Dec. 0 The above graph is based on the examination of specimens from their northern nesting grounds as well as of some taken on migration through southern Ontario, but from no section or season was an adequate number of specimens available for study. The results, however, indicate that though the food of the pigeon hawk consists of an appreciable proportion of insects, birds make up the greater part of it. [35] SPARROW HAWK Length — approx. 10 inches Spread — approx. 22 inches This little hawk inhabits wooded plots of southern, settled Ontario as well as the forests of the north. Males are strik- ingly coloured, with bluish wings and rufous-brown backs marked with spots or barrings of darker colour. Below they are whitish or tawny more or less dotted with black. Their tails are rufous, broadly banded at the end with black and tipped with white. Fe- males are rufous brown above, barred with dark markings on the back and tail; below they are buffy, streaked with light brown. When perching, this hawk frequently moves its tail up and down irregularly as though balancing. It is a master of hovering flight and can poise on beating wings over a likely spot in meadow or clearing, or, if the wind is right, can remain fixed in the air on set, outstretched wings for half a minute or more. A few individuals sometimes winter in southern Ontario. ORIGIN OF 27 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 3 WERE EMPTY Locality No. Camp 33, Cochrane Dist 2 Emo, Rainy River Dist 1 Kaminiskwa River, Cochrane Dist 1 King Tp., York Co 1 Kingsville, Essex Co 4 London, Middlesex Co 2 Orient Bay, Thunder Bay Dist 1 Point Pelee, Essex Co 2 Ft. Sydney, Muskoka Dist.. 2 Rainy River, Rainy River Dist 1 Rondeau, Kent Co 2 Toronto, York Co 7 Weatherbe, Thunder Bay Dist 1 Mth. No. Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. The proportion and variety of food items in the above graph are probably fairly repre- sentative of the average diet of the sparrow hawk during its residence in Ontario, and demon- strate how inappropriate is its common name. The specimens were from widely separated sections north and south including both settled and unsettled areas. 136] BARN OWL Length — approx. 16 inches Spread — approx. 44 inches The barn owl, a southern species, is occasionally noted in settled Ontario, more particularly in the southern counties. Its upper parts are mixed grey and yellow buff finely dotted with black and white and the underparts vary from white to buff, marked with small black dots. The dark eyes are set in a white, heart- shaped, facial disc producing the curious visage of this owl which is unique among our birds. Its legs are long and it does not possess ear-tufts. The capture of a specimen is usually reported in local press accounts in terms which suggest that some freak or hybrid between an owl and a monkey had been discovered. This has given rise to the name "monkey-faced owl" in some localities. The species frequents wooded areas as well as situations about buildings. Like most owls, it hunts at night. It appears to be migratory in the northern part of its range. The food of this owl is principally mice, according to studies made elsewhere Fewer than six stomachs examined. [37] SCREECH OWL Length — approx. 9 inches Spread — approx. 22 inches The screech owl is perhaps our best known species. It occurs throughout the southern, settled portions of Ontario, •m v but not in the forested sec- Sf A^S tions of the north. Two colour %i \ phases occur, individuals \ (Sfca^ fes_J being either grey or rufous, the latter being the least common. Specimens inter- mediate in colour are rare. The pattern is similar in both phases, the back feathers being finely streaked with black, and there are some more or less concealed white markings. Below, the feath- ers are streaked with black, the grey phase being also more or less barred with black. "Ear-tufts" are present and the eyes are yellow. The tremulous call of this owl is familiar to persons in the city as well as in rural districts since the species frequents the shade trees of residential streets as well as farm orchards, groves and woods. This owl is nocturnal and non-migratory. ORIGIN OF 29 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 6 WERE EMPTY Insects 26-l<55. \ Locality No. Mth. No. J BtEILt! \ Grasshoppers ^S^ \ King Tp., York Co 1 Jan. 5 / -^PROTtcrt 0 Bird:- Kingsville, Essex Co 4 Feb. ? / ^^4-3% ^_^^, Lobo Tp., Middlesex Co... 8 Mar. 0 / London Tp., Middlesex Co. 4 Apr. 1 \ /.^^ ' UN'DtNTIfiABLl Bird Plover Mills, Middlesex Co. 1 May 0 ^^>— ~^ Unprotected Biros Pottageville, York Co 1 June 5 \ Mice 59<$5> ^v^-^-'T-S'ft Toronto, York Co 7 July 0 \ Drif, M MEADOW VOLU ^^r^ry Vineland, Lincoln Co 2 Aug. 0 \ ^w Woodville, Victoria Co 1 Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. 1 \ 5 4 ^^5/ The above graph is based on the examination of specimens from various points in the normal range of the screech owl in Ontario and the number represented is probably sufficient to indicate fairly accurately the average food habits of the species. Items other than mice to indicate fairly accurately the average food habits and insects are taken in small proportions. [38] HORNED OWL* Length — approx. 23 inches Spread — approx. 56 inches This owl inhabits heavily wooded areas throughout the province, although in the south it is confined more particularly to swampy woods. It is not uncommon in Ontario as a whole. In colour the species is greatly variable, some indi- viduals showing a predomin- ance of white, others being- more or less sooty black. The resident form in more south- ern sections is mottled dark buff and black above, and be- low it is buff barred with black, interspersed with some wThite markings, the throat area being white. The species has prominent black ear-tufts and its eyes are yellow. The nocturnal habits, the large size and the loud, unbird-like voice of this species seem to be the combination of characters which caused weird attributes to be popularly bestowed on owls. One of its calls, a "whoo, hoo-hoo, whooo, whooo," is char- acteristic. The species wanders in the fall. ORIGIN OF 27 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 11 WERE EMPTY Locality No. Keewatin, Kenora Dist 1 King Tp., York Co 1 Kingsville, Essex Co 3 Lobo, Middlesex Co 4 London, Middlesex Co 1 Orient Bay, Thunder Bay Dist 2 Oswekin, Brant Co 1 Pt. Sydney, Muskoka Dist.. 1 Rice Lake, Northumberland Co 1 Sarnia, Lambton Co 1 Sauble Beach, Bruce Co 1 Toronto, York Co 8 Walkerton, Bruce Co 1 Woodville, Victoria Co 1 Mth. No. Jan. 3 Feb. 4 Mar. 3 Apr. 0 May 2 June 4 July 0 Aug. 0 Sept. 2 Oct. 1 Nov. 4 Dec. 4 The material for studying the food of the great horned owl was secured from widely distributed sections of the province and concerns all seasons of the year except midsummer. The picture presented by the graph is therefore fairly representative of the average food habits of the species. It is evident that it is necessary to guard against this owl in culti- vated districts. ♦Including three races occurring in Ontario. [39] SNOWY OWL Length — approx. 24 inches Spread — approx. 58 inches This inhabitant of the barren grounds of the Arctic in- vades southern Ontario periodically in the fall, sometimes in considerable numbers. Adult males are predominately white with some small brown markings. Females are more heavily marked with brown, as are also immatures. No conspicuous ear tufts are pre- sent, and their eyes are yel- low. Its diurnal habits, to- gether with its large size, render it rather conspicuous during its visits to settled sections. During its periodic residence in southern lati- tudes, it frequents marshy areas, lake shores and cultivated lands. The fairly rapid flight of this owl is accomplished by a rather slow, firm flapping somewhat gull-like and is fre- quently punctuated by short sails. It usually perches on the ground or on objects near the ground. $tf% ORIGIN OF 75 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 32 WERE EMPTY Locality No. Elgin Co 1 Frontenac Co 2 Grey Co 6 Halton Co 6 Huron Co 1 Leeds Co 1 Lincoln Co 1 Middlesex Co 3 Nipissing Dist 1 Norfolk Co 1 Northumberland Co 2 Ontario Co 2 Peel Co 2 Prince Edward Co 8 Simcoe Co 3 Sudbury Dist 1 Thunder Bay Dist 1 Wellington Co 1 York Co 32 Mth. No. Jan. It Feb. 2 Mar. 2 Apr. 1 May 1 June 0 July 0 Aug. 0 Sept. 0 Oct. I Nov. 31 Dec. 26 The fish item shown in the graph under miscellaneous foods was the head of a large lake trout, obviously carrion. It is highly probable that some of the protected birds shown in the graph were also carrion found along beaches. [40| HAWK OWL Length — approx. 15 inches Spread — approx. 33 inches This owl is a resident of the far northern forests; in fall and winter it sometimes, though rarely, is found in settled sections farther south. The species does not possess ear-tufts. Its eyes are yellow and the grayish facial disc is bordered by a black outline. Adults are dark grey-brown above, marked with white on the head, neck and wings; their underparts are whitish, barred with brown. Their tails are relatively long and rounded. Juveniles are similar to adults but possess a heavy brown belt across the upper breast, and below they are tawny, barred with brown. This owl is active during the day. While on the wing during hunting cruises, it has the appearance of a hawk. It frequently perches on dead stubs and in such positions it sometimes holds its long tail erect, at a right angle to the body. ORIGIN OF 14 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 2 WERE EMPTY Locality No Camp "33" Cochrane Dist. . 1 Ghost River, Cochrane Dist. 6 Little Current, Manitoulin Dist 1 Lowbush, Cochrane Dist 1 McGregor Bay, Manitoulin Dist 1 Parry Sound, Parry Sound Dist 1 Pt. Sydney, Muskoka Dist.. 1 Scotia June, Parry Sound Dist 1 Whitney, Nipissing Dist 1 Mth. No. Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. The food of the hawk owl in summer and in winter as suggested by the limited number of stomachs examined consists of such a high percentage of small rodents that it seems unlikely that further material would greatly alter the picture presented in the above graph. The districts represented in the accompanying table of specimens are in the north, the normal range of this owl. 141] BARRED OWL Length — approx. 19 inches Spread — approx. 44 inches This owl is principally of southern distribution although it occurs northward to the borders of the eastern coniferous forest, even in the districts west of Lake Superior. Though still not common, the barred owl has increased somewhat in recent years. The species has no ear-tufts, the bill is yellow, the eyes are dark brown and the facial disc is grey, finely barred with a darker tone. Above it is greyish brown, barred with whitish; the grey underparts are conspicuously marked with brown, barred on the chest and streaked below. The call of this owl has given rise to the name * 'hoot-owl." There is a considerable variation in its "whoo-whoo-whoo, whoo-whoo, who-who-oah" call, but the descending final syl- lable, "whoo-ah," is characteristic. It is a woodland species, nocturnal in habits and not strictly migratory although somewhat of a wanderer. ORIGIN OF 31 STOMACHS EXAMINED OF WHICH 4 WERE EMPTY >^\Unprotecteo Biros / £j\ Locality No. Mth. No. / \ 14.8% /j^\ / \ PIGEONS / <