How do burrowing owls hunt near sunrise and sunset?

Burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia) are unique among many owl species because they are active during the day, often standing by their burrows or on posts. When hunting near sunrise and sunset, they capture their prey—primarily insects and small rodents—by either running them down along the ground or swooping in from a nearby perch.1

This hunting behavior aligns with the general nocturnal routine of many owls, which often exhibit peaks of activity at dusk and dawn. During these periods, owls typically move from their secluded roosts to perches overlooking their hunting areas to forage.2