The barn owl roosts in rafters. The great horned owl seeks the shelter of rocky canyons. But for one owl, the open plains are home.

The burrowing owl is known for its curiosity – and its quirky character. But beyond its clownish reputation, the burrowing owl is finely adapted to the prairies and deserts of West Texas.

With longer legs than other owls, burrowing owls cut an amusing profile. With their families, they chatter and coo. They'll emerge from their burrows in daylight, to survey the scene. You may catch a glimpse of the owl, raising its rounded head and peering out with its yellow eyes.

Michael Nickell, museum scientist at the Sibley Nature Center in Midland, said he was ...