Learning to fly
Powerful Owlets preparing to fly
We’re very excited this year to have two pairs of Powerful Owls roosting and nesting in our area. Volunteers from BirdLife Australia are monitoring these threatened species of owl and are hopeful that this year’s breeding season will be successful.
In the coming days and weeks the owlets are expected to start fledging and learning to fly. This is a very vulnerable time for them.
After low survival rates in recent years, we know that dogs have killed owlets and disturbance can lead to attacks from other birds or parents abandoning the nest.
Image: Ronwyn North
What is fledging and why is it an important time for birds?
Fledging is the stage when birds are becoming capable of flight as their feathers and wing muscles develop. Powerful Owls are still dependent upon parental care and feeding for several months after fledging.
Fledging season for these owls in Greater Sydney begins in late July and extends through to the end of October but most owlets fledge between mid-August and mid-September.
People often want to help fledglings, as they appear vulnerable, but it is best to leave them alone and give them space. The adult Powerful Owls may react to protect their owlets if they become nervous or feel threatened.
Flying practice
Owlets are generally very clumsy for the first few weeks after fledging and take some time and practice to learn to use their wings. During this time they are very vulnerable and can end up on the ground. If they aren't injured and there is a means to clamber back up to safety, they will.
We can all help protect them by following the tips below.
What should I do if I spot the owls?
- If you come across the owls and want to observe them for a short time, observe quietly and from a distance of at least 30-50 metres.
- Keep dogs on a leash at all times and well away from the owls.
- Don’t stand between the adults and the owlet/s, especially at dusk or night time.
- Avoid using flash photography, spotlights and torches.
- Do not share the location of the owls, especially on social media.
What should I do if I find an owl on the ground or that may be injured?
Note your exact location and call one of these wildlife rescue services for advice – they can be called at any time of the day or night. Do not try to capture the bird yourself.
What calls do the owls and owlets make?
- The adult Powerful Owls make a deep woo hoo call.
- The owlets make a high pitched trilling call when they are nervous, begging for food or responding to their parents.
- Listen to the calls on the Xeno Canto website.
More information