barred owl

1. Bird Name
The English name for this bird is the Barred Owl, while its scientific (Latin) name is Strix varia.

2. Appearance
The Barred Owl is named for its unique barred pattern across its chest. It has a rounded head and lacks the more commonly associated ear tufts present in other owl species. Their soft feathers have a mottled white and brown hue on their back and wings and a chest-colored tan with crossways white bars on the belly. They have a yellow beak and dark, brown eyes, which is relatively rare among owl species as most bear yellow eyes. The facial disk is pale with a more pronounced border, and the eyes are set within a dark patch. Males and females are alike in coloring, though females can be slightly larger.

3. Size
Barred Owls are medium to large owls, with a length ranging between 40–63 cm (16-25 inches) and a wingspan of 99–110 cms (39-43 inches). Their weight ranges between 500 and 1,050 grams (1.1–2.3 lb).

4. Habitat & Distribution
The Barred Owl is a widespread species across North America, found from the Canadian boreal forests as far south as Florida in the United States and into parts of northern Mexico. They can inhabit different types of forests but primarily prefer dense woods with mature trees, frequently near water bodies. Over time, they have extended their region westward and can now be seen in the Pacific Northwest.

5. Interesting Facts
An interesting fact about Barred Owls is their adaptability to human-modified landscapes, and they can comfortably live in suburban and even urban environments. They also do not migrate and prefer to stay lifelong within a few kilometers of their birthplace. Additionally, unlike many nocturnal owls, the Barred Owl frequently remains active and calls even during the day.

6. Diet
Barred Owls are powerful predators, and their diet primarily comprises of small mammals, including mice, rats, voles, and rabbits. They also occasionally feast on birds, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates.

7. Behavior & Sounds
The Barred Owl is known for its rich, baritone hooting pattern, described as “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you-all?” in folklore due to its resonant similarity. Unconventional for owls, barred owls have been known to hunt in daylight hours, especially during the nesting season or overcast days.

8. Conservation Status
According to the IUCN Red List, the Barred Owl is currently listed as a species of ‘Least Concern’, though its population is believed to be gradually declining.

9. Lifespan
In the wild, the Barred Owl can live up to 10 years, with the oldest recorded individual surviving for 24 years. In captivity, they have been known to live up to 23 years.

10. Additional Notes
In some Native American cultures, including the Cherokee, the Barred Owl is connected to the lore around death and the spirit world. They are frequently referred to as “hoot owls” in the local vernacular and are integral components of local folklore and legends. They are essential to ecosystem stability due to their role as predators, controlling the population of small mammals and other creatures.