Owls in Tucson: Nesting, Not Hunting | Tucson News

Great horned owls are increasingly spotted near homes in Tucson, perching on fences and balconies—and sometimes swooping down, which can be startling, especially with small pets around. But don’t panic: these birds can’t carry off cats or dogs—they’re only about two to three pounds. What’s really happening? Nesting season. Adult owls are fiercely defending their nests and chicks, diving at anything they perceive as a threat, including people and pets. These majestic raptors are actually beneficial, feeding on pigeons and packrats to help control local pests. With about 25 nesting pairs in the area, they’re protected by law, so don’t harm them or their nests. If you see aggressive behavior, report it to Arizona Game and Fish. Pet owners should keep smaller animals indoors or supervised, clear brush from yards (to reduce rodent hiding spots), and use bright lights to deter owls. It’s all part of nature’s rhythm—just enjoy the show while respecting these family-focused birds. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/b8f43e6302d260d5