214 
feathered game on opportunity is evident from stomach examination, 
but the species cannot be an important economically harmful factor because 
of this. It is notable that, although many coulees harbour a pair of this 
species, it is invariably absent from those occupied by its larger relative, 
the Great Horned Owl. 
Evergreen or alder thickets on the edges of marshes or ash swamps 
are the preferred habitat of the species. During migration it is sometimes 
found in companies, resting by day in the dark recesses of wet woods. 
Economic Status. Of 92 stomachs examined, 1 contained a game- 
bird (Quail); 15, other birds; 84, mice; 5, other mammals; and 1, insects. 
From this record it is evident that the species is not seriously destructive. 
Its mousing proclivities are sufficient to give it a claim to protection and 
its small size and nocturnal habits prevent its interference with young 
poultry (at least those that are properly cared for at night). 
367. American Short-eared Owl. marsh owl. Asio flammeus. L, 15-50. A 
medium-sized Owl. Much smaller than the Barred or Great Homed, but larger than the 
Screech, or the Burrowing Owls. Similar in size and build to the 
Long-eared. In general, an ochraceous or buffy bird striped with 
brown; stripes sharply defined and narrower below; softly diffused 
and broader above. Small, inconspicuous eartuf ts rise from centre 
of forehead (Figure 235). 
Distinctions. Likely to be confused only with the Long-eared 
Owl. The general light buff colour, and brown stripes without 
any pure white, are distinctive of this species. The ear tufts may 
be so poorly developed as to be almost absent. The body colour 
varies in individuals, and may be as light as rich cream, or deep 
enough to have a slight suggestion of rusty. Distinctly a striped 
bird. 
Field Marks. Size, general buffy colour, and habitat. 
Nesting. On the ground, in dry marshes. 
Distribution. Nearly Cosmopolitan. In Canada, in all suitable localities north to 
the Arctic ocean. 
This bird is a true Marsh Owl and is slightly more diurnal in its habits 
than many of its relatives. It is often seen in the dusk of the evening 
beating over the marshes in strong and hawk-like flight. As it lives in the 
marshes or along their brushy edges, a great number fall annually to the 
guns of thoughtless sportsmen after other game. 
Economic Status. Of 97 stomachs examined, 11 contained small 
birds; 77, mice; 7, other mammals; and 7, insects. From this record 
and from the fact that the marsh edges, waste patches, and fence-rows 
which this species haunts, are the reserves from which small rodent pests 
spread over cleanly cultivated land, it is evident that this is a most useful 
species and that killing it is removing one of the most ei. cient checks 
upon innumerable pests. 
368. Barred Owl. Strix varia. L, 20. Plate XXIX B. A large hornless, black- 
eyed Owl, smaller than the Great Horned; coloured in brownish grey and white. 
Distinctions. The only other round-headed Owls this species resembl > are the Spotted 
and the Cinereous. It is too far removed in range from the former to be confused with it. 
The smaller size, black instead of yellow eyes, and combination of sharply barred breast 
and striped underparts, will separate it easily from the Cinereous. 
Field Marks. Size, absence of ear tufts, and general grey-brown colour with bars 
across breast. 
Nesting. In hollow trees or in deserted nests of Crows or Hawks. 
Distribution. Eastern North America. In Canada, west to, and including, southern 
Manitoba. 
Figure 235 
Short-eared Owl; 
