Barn Owl

The Barn Owl is 14-20 inches in length and has a wingspan of 43-47 inches.

The barn owl often roosts and nests in buildings and hunts in areas cleared for agriculture, particularly meadows and pastures.  It is perhaps the most distinctive looking owl with its long legs and heart-shaped face.

Like other owls, the barn owl can locate and capture prey in total darkness using its hearing alone.  This is accomplished with asymmetrically positioned ear openings, and the aid of the facial disks.

They feed primarily on rodents but will occasionally capture small birds.  These owls nest during any month of the year and are believed to mate for life.  A pair of barn owls will raise 1-3 broods per year.  The young stay in the nest for 55-65 days and are fed by both sexes.

Many farmers encourage the presence of this excellent mouser in their barns.  These owls are rare to uncommon and a decline has been noted in the East.