The burrowing owl is approximately 9″ tall and is the only species of owl that nests underground.  Typically, these owls lay 5 to 8 eggs and the young fledge approximately 42 days after hatch.

On Marco Island, these owls often seek vacant, mowed lots to build their nests.  The Florida Wildlife Commission allows builders to apply for permits to build on these lots and/or to relocate the birds.  Nest areas are surrounded with silt fencing and workers are permitted to work 20 feet from an active nest.  Once the nest is void of eggs and flightless young, the nest can be relocated.  Typially, the owls are relocated to a nearby burrow.  Unfortunately, they don’t always accept their new home. 

The protected species count does not appear to be adversely impacted by this.  It has been reported that there are 62 pair of burrowing owls on Marco Island in 2012.  In 2011, they numbered approximately 45 pair.