Owl feathers are very soft in comparison to other birds and aid the owl in approaching prey quietly. They can strike their victims in the air, on the ground or even in trees by using long, sharp talons. Even though owls are occasionally taken by birds such as the goshawk or golden eagle, their primary predator is man. Often, owls are shot or trapped under the assumption they have a negative effect on game bird populations. What we should remember is that owls are simply making a living by eating what is available just like any other predator.
Owls are migratory birds protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
It is illegal to harm or possess any of these birds. If you find an owl that appears to have been shot, trapped or poisoned, please report this information to your local game warden. Please contact the Game and Fish Department if you have any other questions concerning these species. The owls of North Dakota. The owls of North Dakota.