35 mm slide; color. Scientific Classification: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Aves; Order: Strigiformes; Family: Strigidae; Genus: Speotyte; Genus species: Speotyte cuniculata. Animal characteristics: Head-Body Length: 23-28 cm; Identification: The face of the burrowing owl is framed with white. They have a black collar, a short tail, and long legs; Habitat: Semi-deserts, treeless grasslands, open prairies; Diet: Carnivore: small rodents, birds, frogs, reptiles, insects; Reproduction: Burrowing owls nest in underground nest chambers from March to July. Females lay 6-11 eggs which are then incubated by both sexes for 28 days; Social Structure: Fairly large colonies may form in more complex burrow systems; Behavior: Even though they hunt during the evening, these owls can often be seen during the day. Northern populations migrate for the winter; Status: No special status; Interesting Facts: Burrowing owls often make their homes in abandoned prairie dog holes.