EconTalk The Mysterious World of Owls (with Jennifer Ackerman)
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Sep 23, 2024 
Join award-winning science writer Jennifer Ackerman, author of 'What an Owl Knows,' as she unravels the mysteries of owls. Discover how they hunt and their fascinating adaptations for survival. Learn why their eyes are positioned forward and how trained dogs can help locate rare owl species. Ackerman also discusses the significance of dead trees for biodiversity and sheds light on the 'Harry Potter effect' on public perceptions of owls. These insights reveal not just the biology of these captivating creatures, but also our complex relationship with them.
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First Owl Encounter
- Jennifer Ackerman's children were fascinated by an eastern screech owl nesting in their backyard.
- The owl's stealth and large prey, like a whole morning dove, sparked Ackerman's interest in the species.
Owl Predators
- Owls are apex predators, often called the "wolves of the air".
- While large owls have few predators, smaller owl species are vulnerable to other birds of prey and animals like snakes and raccoons.
Camouflage
- Long-eared owls' camouflage helps them avoid larger birds of prey.
- Their vertical posture, enhanced by plumicorns, makes them resemble broken branches.
