Trivia question for Jan-13-2011

Today’s question is about one of Carter’s favorite birds.   This bird can hiss like a snake to scare away intruders, and when captured or cornered, it throws itself on its back and flails with sharp-taloned feet, making for an effective defense.  Although this bird has over 20 different names can you tell us it’s most common name?  Also, can you tell us what the number one cause of death is for these guys?

Good Luck 

Answer:

Good job everybody.  This is a Barn Owl.  It is also known by many other names, which may refer to the appearance, call, habitat or the eerie, silent flight: White Owl, Silver Owl, Demon Owl, Ghost Owl, Death Owl, Night Owl, Rat Owl, Church Owl, Cave Owl, Stone Owl, Monkey-faced Owl, Hissing Owl, Hobgoblin or Hobby Owl, Dobby Owl, Golden Owl, Scritch Owl, Screech Owl, Straw Owl, Barnyard Owl and Delicate Owl.

Although these owls are not yet considered endangered, the number one cause of their decline comes from the poisoning of rodents in areas where humans are trying to get rid of excessive rat populations.  Studies have shown that an individual Barn Owl may eat one or more rodents per night; a nesting pair and their young can eat more than 1,000 rodents per year.

Thanks for playing along