Owls are incredible creatures.

They can see in the dimmest light, hear the faintest of sounds, fly silently and rotate their heads to look straight backward. Most owls are nocturnal, more often heard than seen. Even those that are active during the day stay largely out of sight.

Owls: Who Gives a Hoot? reveals the secrets of these mysterious birds and the important role they play in our lives and their ecosystems. Learn about the 19 species that live in Canada and the United States—from the tiny elf owl to the hefty great horned owl. And meet the scientists, activists and young people who are working to keep these iconic birds in flight and turning heads for years to come.

The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.

Frances Backhouse studied biology in university and worked as a park naturalist and as a biologist before becoming an environmental journalist and author. Her six previous books include Once They Were Hats: In Search of the Mighty Beaver and Children of the Klondike, which won the 2010 City of Victoria Butler Book Prize. She lives in Victoria, British Columbia, with her partner, Mark Zuehlke, who is also a writer. Frances loves exploring the natural world both close to home and far away, especially when those explorations involve tent-camping. If there’s a beaver habitat nearby, it’s even better.

Frances Backhouse's profile page

• Nominated, Forest of Reading Yellow Cedar Award

“If you aren’t already an owl fan, you’ll find them hard to resist after reading Owls: Who Gives a Hoot?...Written with expertise and up-to-date science, [the book] will attract the young audience already familiar with the Orca Wild series as well as older readers who simply love owls. Highly recommended.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

“Teachers would find this book to be an excellent addition for a science unit on animals. Readers who love to read about animals will find owls to be fascinating.”

Children's Literature Comprehensive Database (CLCD)

“The impressively comprehensive text is chatty and entertaining…Spectacular photos make each spread a visual treat…This illuminating avian introduction is sure to make an owl ally out of anyone.”

Booklist