In backyards across the United States, five common species of owls can often be found. These majestic creatures, including the Great Horned Owl, Barn Owl, Eastern Screech-Owl, Western Screech-Owl, and Barred Owl, are attracted to residential yards with large trees that resemble their natural habitat. Not only are these owls a captivating sight to behold, but they also provide a valuable service by preying on mice, rats, and other rodents. With their silent flight fueled by exceptional hearing and eyesight, owls are skilled predators of the night. Each species has its own unique features; the Great Horned Owls are large and have mottled plumage, emitting loud hoots, while the Barn Owls are pale and typically opt for barns as their roosting spots, making a harsh hissing or shrieking sound. Eastern Screech-Owls, on the other hand, are smaller in size, sporting reddish or grayish colors and emitting a low whistled trill call. To attract these remarkable birds to their backyards, individuals can provide nest boxes or create an environment with large trees suitable for roosting and nesting.

Great Horned Owl

Physical Description

The Great Horned Owl is a majestic and impressive bird, known for its large size and distinctive appearance. With a wingspan that can reach up to five feet, these owls are one of the largest species found in North America. They have a stocky build and powerful talons, which enable them to catch and carry prey that is significantly larger than themselves. The plumage of the Great Horned Owl is mottled, featuring a combination of brown, grey, and white feathers that provide excellent camouflage in their natural habitat.

Habitat

Great Horned Owls can be found throughout North America, from the Arctic tundra to the tropical rainforests of Central America. These versatile birds are highly adaptable and can thrive in a range of environments, including forests, deserts, swamps, and even urban areas. They are particularly attracted to habitats with a mixture of open spaces for hunting and dense trees for roosting and nesting.

Behavior

As nocturnal hunters, Great Horned Owls are most active during the night, using their excellent hearing and eyesight to locate prey. They are opportunistic hunters and have a varied diet, which includes small mammals, birds, reptiles, and even other owls. Despite their large size, Great Horned Owls are incredibly silent in flight, allowing them to surprise their prey. They are also skilled predators and have been known to take down animals larger than themselves, such as rabbits and skunks.

Call

The call of the Great Horned Owl is iconic and often associated with nighttime in the wilderness. They produce a distinctive hooting sound that can be heard over long distances. The call consists of a series of deep, resonant hoots, usually in sets of three to eight hoots per series. The hooting serves several purposes for the owl, including territorial defense and attracting a mate. Each owl has a unique hoot pattern, which helps them identify and communicate with one another.

Attraction to Backyards

Great Horned Owls are often drawn to residential areas that provide suitable habitat and abundant food sources. They are especially attracted to backyards with large trees that resemble their natural roosting and nesting sites. Installing nest boxes in these trees can also help attract Great Horned Owls, providing them with a safe and secure place to raise their young. Additionally, providing a reliable food source, such as a bird feeder or leaving out small mammals like mice and rats, can encourage these magnificent birds to visit and take up residence in your backyard.

Barn Owl

Physical Description

The Barn Owl is a distinctive and elegant bird, known for its pale plumage and heart-shaped face. Unlike other owls, Barn Owls have a unique appearance, with long wings and a short tail. Their plumage is predominantly white, with some variations including shades of brown and grey. The soft feathers of the Barn Owl enable it to fly silently through the night, making it an efficient and stealthy hunter.

Habitat

Barn Owls are commonly found in open habitats such as grasslands, agricultural fields, and wetlands. As their name suggests, they also frequently roost and nest in barns, abandoned buildings, and other man-made structures. These adaptable birds have been known to inhabit urban areas and can even be found in suburban backyards, provided there is suitable habitat and a reliable food source.

Behavior

Similar to other owl species, Barn Owls are primarily nocturnal hunters. They have excellent low-light vision and acute hearing, which enables them to locate prey with great precision. Barn Owls primarily feed on small mammals like mice, voles, and rats, making them highly beneficial for controlling rodent populations. They do not build nests but instead find suitable sites to roost and raise their young.

Call

The call of the Barn Owl is unique and distinct, often described as a harsh hiss or shriek. The vocalizations of the Barn Owl serve various purposes, including territorial defense, communication between mates, and navigation in the dark. The eerie calls of these owls can be heard echoing through the night, adding to their mystical and captivating presence.

Attraction to Backyards

Barn Owls can be attracted to backyards that offer suitable roosting and nesting sites. Providing barn-like structures or nest boxes can entice these owls to take up residence in your backyard. Similarly, creating a welcoming environment with open grassy areas and keeping rodent populations under control can help attract Barn Owls. By offering these birds a safe and comfortable space, you can enjoy the benefits of their rodent control abilities while marveling at their beauty and grace.

Eastern Screech-Owl

Physical Description

The Eastern Screech-Owl, as its name suggests, is known for its distinctive screeching call. These small owls measure about 6-10 inches in height and have a wingspan of approximately 18-24 inches. Eastern Screech-Owls come in two color variations: reddish and grayish. The reddish morph has plumage with reddish-brown tones, while the gray morph features grey feathers with white streaks. This color variation allows these owls to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, providing excellent camouflage.

Habitat

Eastern Screech-Owls can be found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, woodlands, suburban areas, and even parks and gardens within urban environments. These adaptable birds thrive in areas with a mix of trees, shrubs, and open spaces, as they rely on both hunting and roosting sites within their habitat.

Behavior

Eastern Screech-Owls are primarily nocturnal predators, hunting primarily at night using their exceptional hearing and vision. Despite their small size, they are skilled hunters and feed on a variety of prey, including mice, insects, small birds, and reptiles. They are known for their ability to perch quietly and silently wait for prey to pass by before swooping down to make a swift and precise capture.

Call

The screeching call of the Eastern Screech-Owl is unmistakable and can be heard in the night. Their call resembles a high-pitched whistled trill, lasting for several seconds. These vocalizations serve purposes such as attracting mates, defending territory, and communicating with other Eastern Screech-Owls within their range. The haunting sound adds to the mystique and allure of these captivating birds.

Attraction to Backyards

Eastern Screech-Owls can be attracted to backyards that offer suitable roosting and nesting sites. Providing nest boxes or suitable tree cavities can entice these owls to choose your backyard as their home. Their small size and ability to adapt to different environments make them suitable residents in both suburban and rural areas. By offering Eastern Screech-Owls a welcoming habitat, you can observe these fascinating creatures up close and enjoy their melodic calls during the night.

Western Screech-Owl

Physical Description

Western Screech-Owls are closely related to Eastern Screech-Owls and share similar physical characteristics. They are small owls, measuring about 8-10 inches in height with a wingspan of approximately 21-24 inches. These owls have a stocky build, short tails, and prominent ear tufts that add to their charm. Their plumage varies, with color variations ranging from gray to reddish-brown, providing effective camouflage in their natural habitat.

Habitat

Western Screech-Owls can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, canyons, and suburban areas with suitable roosting and nesting sites. They are versatile birds and can adapt to a range of environments, as long as there is a reliable food source and appropriate roosting locations available.

Behavior

Similar to other owl species, Western Screech-Owls are primarily nocturnal hunters. They rely on their keen hearing and vision to locate prey, which consists of small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. These owls are skilled hunters, utilizing their silent flight and sharp talons to make swift and precise captures. They prefer to perch on branches and wait for their prey to pass by before swooping down for the kill.

Call

The call of the Western Screech-Owl is a distinctive series of whistles and trills. Their vocalizations can vary, with some individuals producing a low, ponderous whinny while others emit a more rapid and high-pitched call. These vocalizations serve various purposes, including communication between mates, territory defense, and locating one another within their habitat.

Attraction to Backyards

Western Screech-Owls can be attracted to backyards that provide suitable habitat and potential roosting and nesting sites. Installing nest boxes with appropriate dimensions and mounting them in large trees can entice these owls to take up residence in your backyard. Additionally, creating a welcoming environment with natural vegetation and providing a reliable food source, such as insects attracted to garden plants, can further attract Western Screech-Owls. With their presence, you can enjoy their beauty and contribute to the conservation of these precious owl species.

Barred Owl

Physical Description

Barred Owls are medium-sized owls known for their striking appearance. They have round faces with large brown eyes and a pale, almost white facial disc outlined by dark feathers. Their overall plumage is a mix of brown and white bars, hence their name. The patterned feathers provide excellent camouflage in their habitat, making them difficult to spot during the day.

Habitat

Barred Owls can be found in a variety of wooded habitats, including forests, swamps, and riparian areas. These adaptable birds often inhabit areas near water bodies, where they can find suitable roosting and nesting sites. During the day, Barred Owls prefer to perch high in the trees, blending in with the surroundings and utilizing their excellent camouflage.

Behavior

Barred Owls are primarily nocturnal predators, relying on their exceptional hearing and vision to locate prey. They are opportunistic hunters and will feed on a variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Unlike other owls, Barred Owls are known to sometimes wade into shallow water to catch fish or amphibians. They are skilled hunters, utilizing their silent flight and powerful talons to secure their prey.

Call

The call of the Barred Owl is often described as “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you-all?” Their vocalization is a series of eight hoots, with the last two being slightly lower and more distinctive. The melodic call of the Barred Owl can be heard during the night and serves purposes such as territorial defense, attracting mates, and communication between individuals. The haunting call adds to the allure and mystique of these fascinating birds.

Attraction to Backyards

Barred Owls can be attracted to backyards that provide suitable habitat and nesting opportunities. These owls are known to readily accept nest boxes, so installing one in a large tree can entice them to choose your backyard as their home. Additionally, maintaining a diverse and well-maintained landscape with natural features such as dense vegetation and water sources can attract Barred Owls. By creating a welcoming environment, you can enjoy the presence of these captivating creatures and contribute to their conservation efforts.

Physical Description

Great Horned Owl

The Great Horned Owl is a large and striking bird, measuring about 18-25 inches in height and weighing approximately 2-5 pounds. They have a wingspan that can reach up to five feet, making them one of the largest owl species in North America. Great Horned Owls have mottled plumage, featuring a combination of brown, grey, and white feathers that provide excellent camouflage in their natural habitat. They also have sharp talons and prominent ear tufts, which add to their majestic appearance.

Barn Owl

Barn Owls are medium-sized birds, measuring about 13-15 inches in height and weighing approximately one pound. They have a wingspan of approximately 33-39 inches, giving them a distinctive appearance. Unlike other owl species, Barn Owls have a unique shape, with long wings and a short tail. Their plumage is predominantly white, with some variations including shades of brown and grey. These owls have a heart-shaped face with dark eyes, giving them a captivating and enchanting look.

Eastern Screech-Owl

Eastern Screech-Owls are small owls, measuring about 6-10 inches in height and weighing approximately 6-9 ounces. They have a wingspan of approximately 18-24 inches, making them one of the smallest owl species in North America. These owls come in two distinct color variations: reddish and grayish. The reddish morph has plumage with reddish-brown tones, while the gray morph features gray feathers with white streaks. Despite their small size, Eastern Screech-Owls have a powerful and appealing presence.

Western Screech-Owl

Western Screech-Owls are similar in size to Eastern Screech-Owls, measuring about 8-10 inches in height and weighing approximately 6-9 ounces. They have a wingspan of approximately 21-24 inches, giving them a compact and sturdy appearance. Western Screech-Owls have a stocky build and short tails, with prominent ear tufts that add to their charm. Their plumage varies from gray to reddish-brown, providing effective camouflage in their natural habitat.

Barred Owl

Barred Owls are medium-sized birds, measuring about 16-24 inches in height and weighing approximately 1-2 pounds. They have a wingspan of approximately 38-49 inches, giving them a robust and imposing presence. Barred Owls have round faces with large brown eyes and a pale facial disc outlined by dark feathers. Their overall plumage is a mix of brown and white bars, providing excellent camouflage in their habitat. Their distinctive appearance adds to their allure and mystique.

Habitat

Great Horned Owl

Great Horned Owls can be found throughout North America, from the Arctic tundra to the tropical rainforests of Central America. These adaptable birds can thrive in a diverse range of habitats, including forests, deserts, swamps, mountains, and even urban areas. They are particularly attracted to habitats with a mixture of open spaces for hunting and dense trees for roosting and nesting. Great Horned Owls are known to nest in abandoned nests of other large birds, such as hawks or crows, and will also use tree cavities or cliff ledges as nesting sites.

Barn Owl

Barn Owls inhabit a variety of habitats, with a preference for open areas such as grasslands, agricultural fields, and wetlands. They are also commonly found in forests and woodlands that offer suitable roosting and nesting sites. As their name suggests, Barn Owls often roost and nest in barns, abandoned buildings, and man-made structures. Unlike some owl species, Barn Owls readily adapt to urban environments, provided there is a reliable food source and suitable habitat available.

Eastern Screech-Owl

Eastern Screech-Owls can be found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, woodlands, suburban areas, and even parks and gardens within urban environments. They are versatile birds and can adapt to different types of habitats, as long as suitable roosting and nesting sites are available. Eastern Screech-Owls prefer areas with a mix of trees, shrubs, and open spaces, as they rely on both hunting and roosting sites within their habitat.

Western Screech-Owl

Western Screech-Owls can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, canyons, and suburban areas with suitable roosting and nesting sites. Similar to Eastern Screech-Owls, they are versatile birds and can adapt to different environments, provided there is a reliable food source and appropriate roosting locations available. Western Screech-Owls are commonly found near water bodies, as they offer diverse prey options and suitable vegetation for roosting.

Barred Owl

Barred Owls inhabit a variety of wooded habitats, including forests, swamps, and riparian areas. These adaptable birds often prefer areas near water bodies, such as lakes, rivers, and wetlands, where they can find suitable roosting and nesting sites. During the day, Barred Owls typically perch high in the trees, blending in with their surroundings and utilizing their excellent camouflage. They are territorial birds and will defend their preferred habitat against other Barred Owls.

Behavior

Great Horned Owl

Great Horned Owls are highly adaptable and versatile predators, with a diverse diet that includes small mammals, birds, reptiles, and even other owls. They are skilled hunters and have been known to take down prey larger than themselves, such as rabbits and skunks. Great Horned Owls are opportunistic hunters, relying on their excellent hearing and vision to locate prey. They have silent flight capabilities, allowing them to surprise their prey. These owls are also known for their aggressive and fearless nature, defending their territory against any potential threats.

Barn Owl

Barn Owls are primarily nocturnal hunters, relying on their exceptional hearing and vision to locate prey. They are highly beneficial for controlling rodent populations, as small mammals like mice, voles, and rats make up a significant portion of their diet. Unlike other owl species, Barn Owls have a unique feeding behavior. Instead of swallowing their prey whole like most owls, Barn Owls will often tear their prey into smaller pieces before consuming them. This behavior is thought to be an adaptation to their preferred food sources.

Eastern Screech-Owl

Similar to other owl species, Eastern Screech-Owls are primarily nocturnal hunters. They have exceptional low-light vision and acute hearing, allowing them to locate prey with great precision. Eastern Screech-Owls primarily feed on a variety of prey, including mice, insects, small birds, and reptiles. They are skilled hunters and have a unique hunting technique where they perch silently and wait for their prey to pass by, before swooping down to make a swift and precise capture.

Western Screech-Owl

Western Screech-Owls share similar hunting behavior with their Eastern counterparts. They are primarily nocturnal predators and rely on their keen vision and hearing to locate prey. Western Screech-Owls feed on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Similar to other owl species, they rely on their silent flight to surprise their prey. They are opportunistic hunters and will perch on branches, waiting for their prey to pass by before making a swift capture.

Barred Owl

Barred Owls are primarily nocturnal hunters, relying on their excellent hearing and vision to locate prey. They feed on a variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and even fish. Unlike some owl species, Barred Owls are known to wade into shallow water to catch fish or amphibians. They rely on their silent flight and powerful talons to secure their prey. Barred Owls are territorial birds and will defend their preferred hunting grounds against other Barred Owls.

Call

Great Horned Owl

The call of the Great Horned Owl is iconic and often associated with nighttime in the wilderness. Great Horned Owls produce a distinctive hooting sound that can be heard over long distances. Their call consists of a series of deep, resonant hoots, usually ranging from three to eight hoots per series. Each owl has a unique hoot pattern, which helps them identify and communicate with one another. The hooting serves several purposes, including territorial defense and attracting a mate.

Barn Owl

The call of the Barn Owl is unique and distinct, often described as a harsh hiss or shriek. They produce a variety of vocalizations, ranging from soft snoring sounds to piercing screeches. These vocalizations serve various purposes, including territorial defense, communication between mates, and navigation in the dark. The eerie calls of Barn Owls can be heard echoing through the night, adding to their mystical and captivating presence.

Eastern Screech-Owl

Eastern Screech-Owls have a distinctive screeching call that is often associated with their species. Their vocalizations resemble a high-pitched whistled trill, lasting for several seconds. Eastern Screech-Owls produce a series of whistles and trills that can vary in pitch and tone. These vocalizations serve purposes such as attracting mates, defending territory, and communicating with other Eastern Screech-Owls within their range. The melodic call of these owls adds to their charm and allure.

Western Screech-Owl

Similar to Eastern Screech-Owls, Western Screech-Owls produce a distinctive series of whistles and trills. Their vocalizations can vary, with some individuals emitting a low, ponderous whinny while others produce a more rapid and high-pitched call. These vocalizations serve various purposes, including communication between mates, territory defense, and locating one another within their habitat. The melodic calls of Western Screech-Owls can be heard during the night, adding to their magical presence.

Barred Owl

The call of the Barred Owl is often described as “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you-all?” Barred Owls produce a series of eight hoots, with the last two being slightly lower and more distinctive. These vocalizations are melodic and can be heard during the night. The calls serve various purposes, including territorial defense, attracting mates, and communication between individuals. The haunting call of the Barred Owl adds to their mystique and allure.

Attraction to Backyards

Great Horned Owl

Great Horned Owls are often drawn to residential areas that provide suitable habitat and abundant food sources. They are attracted to backyards with large trees that resemble their natural roosting and nesting sites. These owls can be enticed to visit and potentially take up residence by providing nest boxes or suitable tree cavities for roosting and nesting. Additionally, offering a reliable food source, such as a bird feeder or leaving out small mammals like mice and rats, can encourage these magnificent birds to visit and make your backyard their hunting grounds.

Barn Owl

Barn Owls are known to be attracted to backyards with ample habitat and suitable roosting and nesting sites. They readily accept nest boxes, making them ideal candidates for attracting to your backyard. Installing barn-like structures or providing other man-made structures that replicate their preferred nesting site can entice Barn Owls to choose your backyard as their home. Additionally, maintaining a diverse landscape with open grassy areas can provide suitable hunting grounds for these owls, attracting them with an abundant food supply.

Eastern Screech-Owl

Eastern Screech-Owls can be attracted to backyards that offer suitable roosting and nesting sites. Providing nest boxes or suitable tree cavities can entice these owls to take up residence in your backyard. Their small size and ability to adapt to different environments make them suitable residents in both suburban and rural areas. By creating a welcoming habitat with a mix of trees, shrubs, and open spaces, you can attract Eastern Screech-Owls and enjoy their melodic calls during the night.

Western Screech-Owl

Western Screech-Owls can be attracted to backyards that provide suitable habitat and potential roosting and nesting sites. Installing nest boxes with appropriate dimensions and mounting them in large trees can entice these owls to choose your backyard as their home. Creating a welcoming environment with natural vegetation, such as native plants and trees, can also attract Western Screech-Owls. Additionally, providing a reliable food source, such as insects attracted to garden plants, can further entice these owls to visit and potentially make your backyard their hunting grounds.

Barred Owl

Barred Owls can be attracted to backyards that provide suitable habitat and nesting opportunities. Installing nest boxes or providing suitable tree cavities can attract these owls to choose your backyard as their home. Additionally, creating a diverse and well-maintained landscape with natural features such as dense vegetation and water sources can further attract Barred Owls. By offering a welcoming environment, you can enjoy the presence of these captivating creatures and contribute to their conservation efforts.