Date: 5/28/26 11:31 am From: cathyjo777 via groups.io <cathyjo777...> Subject: [sd-birds] Burrowing Owl(s) in Clay County
I observed the burrowing owl for about 45 minutes this morning (May 28) that has been reported on the Greenfield Road in Clay County. It continues to be at the same location as in the rare bird alerts for the past few days.
I possibly observed 2; a lighter colored one (male?) and darker one (female?). As I was looking through my camera it is hard for me to be certain as I only observed one at a time (through my long lens) but I thought when I was looking at the one on the fence post another flew into the field. I observed the darker one going to a spot very close to the road in the tall grass (photo attached) at least twice. I stayed a distance away in my car so as to not disturb the owls. My concern is that they are possibly nesting in a badger hole (again pure speculation) and that it is so close to the road at risk of getting hit by a car and/or the county mowing the road ditch there.
I am a relatively new birder and wanted to pass along the information in case there is something to be done to protect the owl/s.
