This print shows both the young owl (reddish in color) and the adult (grey mottled) shown in the branches of the Jersey Pine. The Little Screech Owl is found in the eastern states and is most plentiful in the autumn and winter. The Audubon Society writes that “This robin-sized nightbird is common over much of the east, including in city parks and shady suburbs, where many human residents are unaware they have an owl for a neighbor. The owl spends the day roosting in holes or in dense cover, becoming active at dusk. Despite the name, screech-owls do not screech; the voice of this species features whinnies and soft trills.” You can hear the distinctive call of the screech owl here, courtesy of the American Bird Conservancy’s website.
We hope these owls bring good luck and wisdom to all the students beginning a new school year, and to anyone else who might need a little extra wisdom right now! Be sure to visit us to see them in person this month.
Elizabeth Roscio
Preservation Librarian
