The present study provides an attempt to evaluate some morphological adaptations for terrestrial locomotion in the Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia). The Little Owl (Athene noctua), which is commonly considered a relatively generalised member of the genus, has also been examined for comparisons. Morphological features of the hind limb of the Burrowing Owl revealed by this analysis are interpreted as a consequence of adaptations for high-speed terrestrial locomotion and probably for digging. These adaptations are expressed, for example, in the elongation and thinning of the distal limb elements, promotion of the rotational expanse of the shank and foot, and shifting of muscle bellies in a proximal direction. However, level of the morphological modifications is greatly limited by a necessity to retain basic functional morphological specificity of the hind limb in these taxa. These adaptations, at least in owls, appear to be effective “tools” for prey capture. Some results of the current study can be partly extrapolated to other avian groups because of the fact, that some adaptations of hind limb morphology, associated with a terrestrial life-style, are universal.