In Austin, Texas, the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center welcomes back Athena, a beloved Great Horned Owl, for her 14th consecutive year.

Livestreaming Athena’s Nesting Grounds

This year, the center partners with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology to set up an owl cam, allowing enthusiasts to observe Athena’s activities via livestream.

Athena’s Nesting History

Athena’s nesting history at the Wildflower Center dates back to 2012, where she first appeared. Over the years, she has laid and hatched multiple eggs, becoming a fixture at the center.

Last year, Athena was spotted at her nest on March 1, eventually hatching two owlets. Currently, she is incubating two more eggs.

In 2017, she was once again observed at her nest, successfully hatching two owlets. Her nesting patterns have varied over the years, with egg counts ranging from one to three.

Insights into Great Horned Owls

Great Horned Owls, characterized by their bright yellow eyes and four-foot wingspan, are a common sight across the U.S. They inhabit various environments, including trees, orchards, wooded areas, and unoccupied buildings.

Contrary to their name, the horns of Great Horned Owls are merely tufts of feathers. These birds are opportunistic predators, preying on a variety of creatures ranging from rabbits and mice to scorpions and even porcupines.

The species has thrived for over 50 years, populating not only the U.S. but also Canada and several South American countries.

Athena: An Iconic Resident

Returning year after year, Athena has become an iconic presence at the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center, captivating visitors and online audiences alike.

For enthusiasts eager to witness Athena’s activities, the center provides livestream access via various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

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