What is "burrowing owl"

Burrow \Bur"row\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. Burrowed; p. pr. & vb. n. Burrowing.]

1. To excavate a hole to lodge in, as in the earth; to lodge in a hole excavated in the earth, as conies or rabbits.

2. To lodge, or take refuge, in any deep or concealed place; to hide.

   Sir, this vermin of court reporters, when they are forced into day upon one point, are sure to burrow in another.
   --Burke.

   Burrowing owl (Zo["o]l.), a small owl of the western part of North America ( Speotyto cunicularia), which lives in holes, often in company with the prairie dog.

n. A small owl of the western part of North America (''Speotyto cunicularia''), which lives in holes, often in company with the prairie dog.

The burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) is a small, long-legged owl found throughout open landscapes of North and South America. Burrowing owls can be found in grasslands, rangelands, agricultural areas, deserts, or any other open dry area with low vegetation. They nest and roost in burrows, such as those excavated by prairie dogs (Cynomys spp.). Unlike most owls, burrowing owls are often active during the day, although they tend to avoid the midday heat. But like many other kinds of owls, burrowing owls do most of their hunting from dusk until dawn, when they can use their night vision and hearing to their advantage. Living in open grasslands as opposed to the forest, the burrowing owl has developed longer legs, which enables it to sprint as well as fly when hunting.