The Southern Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) is a fascinating Neotropical raptor, primarily recognized for its unique terrestrial lifestyle—an evolutionary adaptation that sets it apart from many related species. It inhabits extensive open prairies, grasslands, savannas, and semi-arid zones across South America, ranging from southern Brazil, Bolivia, and Peru through Argentina, Uruguay, and central Chile. The species shares many physical and behavioral traits with its North American counterpart, A. c. hypugaea, including its upright stance and its frequent diurnal hunting activity.
Although the species is strongly associated with underground cavities—reflected in its Latin name (cunicularia, meaning “of the burrow”)—not all South American populations dig their own burrows. In many regions, the owl predominantly occupies abandoned mammal burrows, while studies from southern parts of its range indicate that some populations are capable of excavating their own shelters.
Comparisons with Old World members of the genus Athene, such as the Little Owl (A. noctua) and the Spotted Owlet (A. brama), also require nuance. While A. noctua may occasionally nest in burrows and is sometimes loosely grouped among “burrowing owls,” these species generally rely more on arboreal or rupicolous sites and do not consistently exhibit the same habitat use or behavioral adaptations as A. cunicularia.
• Lechucita de campo, mochuelo de Madriguera, tecolote Llanero, lechucita vizcachera, lechucita pampa
• Southern burrowing owl
Scientific classification:
Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:Chordata
Class:Aves
Order:Strigiformes
Family:Strigidae
Genus:Athene
Species:A. cunicularia
Santa Regina, Colonia, Uruguay
Camera: Canon EOS R7
Lens: Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Contemporary
Capture Information:
Focal Length: 546.0 mm
Shutter Speed: 1/1000
Aperture: f/7.1
ISO: 640
Photo Taken: November 23, 2025
High resolution
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