Tag: barn owl

the barn owl is the most widespread owl in the world and one of the most widespread birds, found on every continent except antartica. barn owls are nocturnal and feed mainly on small rodents such as mice, but will also eat birds and reptiles.

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a barn owl perched next to an eagle owl. the owl family is varied and has all different shapes and sizes. however, typically friendly interactions like this only occur in captivity – naturally, owls tend to only associate among their own species.

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bird of the day: barn owl

the barn owl (tyto alba) is the most widespread owl in the world, found on part of every continent besides antartica.

the barn owl, like most owls, is mainly nocturnal. they prey on rodents, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects, though rodents by far make up the largest percentage of their diet overall. small prey is usually ripped into chunks and swallowed, and inedible bits are regurgitated in the form of a pellet. larger prey is usually eaten more carefully, with inedible pieces discarded. a common misconception is that barn owls prey often on domestic pets, but attacks on cats and small dogs are fairly rare.

over the barn owl’s vast range, various subspecies and color differences are noted.

barn owls nest in cavities in trees, old buildings, and indents in cliff faces. they will also nest in man-made nest boxes. as they are an effective form of natural pest control, some farmers encourage them to nest near their fields with nest boxes.

barn owls are currently rated least concern by the iucn, as they are widespread and have healthy population numbers. in areas where they are scarce, landowners can put up nest boxes to encourage breeding.

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