Burrowing Owl

Athene cunicularia

The Florida Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia floridana) is restricted to Florida and differs from the more widespread species of the western United States in coloration and markings. The diminutive nine–inch tall owl is named after Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom who was accompanied by a baby owl. Cunicularia means pertaining to the rabbit, probably a reference to the fact that the owls live in burrows like rabbits.