Owls aren’t just silent predators of the night—they’re some of the most fascinating birds you’ll ever come across. From the tiny, wide-eyed Elf Owl to the massive and powerful Eurasian Eagle-Owl, each species has something special about it. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at 32 common types of owls and find out what makes each one stand out in its own way.
1. Barn Owl
The Barn Owl is one of the most easily recognized owls in the world due to its distinctive heart-shaped face and ghostly appearance. Found on every continent except Antarctica, this nocturnal bird thrives in open habitats like farmlands, grasslands, and even urban areas. It’s a silent hunter with exceptional low-light vision and acute hearing.
Identification
- Heart-shaped white facial disk
- Pale body with golden-buff and gray upperparts
- Long legs and short tail
- Dark eyes set within a white face
- Wingspan around 30–40 inches
Habitat
Barn Owls prefer open spaces such as fields, meadows, marshes, and agricultural areas. They often nest in barns, hollow trees, and man-made structures, hence their name.
Behavior
They are solitary and nocturnal, hunting mainly at night. They glide silently over fields in search of small mammals, using their finely tuned hearing to locate prey even in complete darkness.
Diet
Primarily small mammals like mice, voles, rats, and shrews. Occasionally, they also consume small birds, insects, or amphibians depending on availability.
Breeding
Barn Owls typically breed in spring. They lay 4 to 7 eggs in secluded places like tree cavities or abandoned buildings. The female incubates while the male brings food.
2. Snowy Owl
The Snowy Owl is a striking bird known for its white plumage and Arctic habitat. Unlike most owls, it is often active during the day, especially in the summer breeding season. These majestic owls migrate southward during winter, sometimes reaching parts of the United States.
Identification
- Predominantly white body with varying amounts of dark spots or bars
- Rounded head with bright yellow eyes
- Thick feathers cover even their feet
- Large size with a wingspan up to 60 inches
- Males are whiter; females show more dark markings
Habitat
Breeds in the Arctic tundra and winters in open fields, coastal dunes, airports, and prairies. Prefers wide-open spaces where it can spot prey from afar.
Behavior
Snowy Owls are diurnal and highly territorial. They are known for sitting patiently on the ground or a perch while scanning for prey.
Diet
Feeds mainly on lemmings and other small rodents in the Arctic. In winter, their diet expands to include rabbits, ducks, and fish.
Breeding
Nests on the ground in the Arctic. The female lays 3 to 11 eggs depending on food availability. Both parents protect the nest aggressively from predators.
3. Great Horned Owl
The Great Horned Owl is a powerful and adaptable predator found throughout the Americas. Recognizable by its prominent ear tufts, it is a top nocturnal hunter in many ecosystems.
Identification
- Large size with prominent feathered ear tufts
- Yellow eyes and a white throat patch
- Mottled gray-brown body with a reddish face
- Wingspan around 40–60 inches
- Strong talons and deep hooting voice
Habitat
Found in forests, deserts, wetlands, and even city parks. It adapts well to various environments and is one of the most widespread owls in the Western Hemisphere.
Behavior
Mostly nocturnal and extremely territorial. They are known for their loud, echoing hoots and stealthy hunting skills.
Diet
Feeds on a wide variety of prey including rabbits, skunks, snakes, birds, and rodents. Known to take down prey larger than itself.
Breeding
Nests in abandoned hawk or eagle nests, cliff ledges, or tree hollows. Females lay 2–3 eggs, which hatch after about a month. The young fledge in 6–9 weeks.
4. Barred Owl
The Barred Owl is known for its rich hooting call that sounds like “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all?” Found primarily in North America, it prefers mature forests near water and is active mostly at night, though it may hunt during the day in low light.
Identification
- Round head with no ear tufts
- Dark brown eyes (uncommon among owls)
- Gray-brown plumage with vertical bars on the belly and horizontal bars on the chest
- Short tail and rounded wings
- Wingspan of about 40–50 inches
Habitat
Prefers dense woods, especially mixed or deciduous forests near swamps, rivers, and wetlands. Also adapts to suburban wooded areas.
Behavior
Barred Owls are territorial and vocal, often heard before seen. They perch silently to spot prey and swoop down quickly.
Diet
Feeds on small mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates. They often hunt by gliding low through the forest or waiting on a perch.
Breeding
They nest in tree cavities or use old nests of hawks and crows. Typically lay 2–3 eggs. Both parents care for the young until they are ready to leave the nest.
5. Eastern Screech Owl
The Eastern Screech Owl is a small, stocky owl that blends easily into tree bark. Despite its name, it doesn’t truly “screech” — its call is more like a soft trill or whinnying sound. Found across the eastern U.S., it thrives in wooded areas, parks, and even backyards.
Identification
- Small size with ear tufts
- Color morphs: gray or reddish-brown (rufous)
- Yellow eyes and camouflage plumage
- Short tail and rounded wings
- Wingspan around 18–24 inches
Habitat
Prefers deciduous or mixed forests, orchards, suburban areas, and parks. Commonly uses nest boxes or tree cavities for shelter.
Behavior
Primarily nocturnal and very well-camouflaged during the day. They hunt from perches, flying swiftly to catch prey.
Diet
Eats a variety of insects, small mammals, birds, and even small reptiles or amphibians. Opportunistic feeders depending on habitat.
Breeding
Nests in tree holes or nest boxes. The female lays 3–5 eggs. Males bring food while the female incubates, and both raise the chicks.
6. Western Screech Owl
The Western Screech Owl is a small but fierce nocturnal hunter native to western North America. Though similar in size and appearance to the Eastern Screech Owl, its call is distinct—a series of short, accelerating whistles.
Identification
- Small size with prominent ear tufts
- Plumage ranges from gray to reddish-brown
- Yellow eyes and streaked underparts
- Well-camouflaged against tree bark
- Wingspan approximately 20–24 inches
Habitat
Found in woodlands, deserts, suburban areas, and parks throughout the western U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Nests in tree cavities, nest boxes, or crevices in rocks.
Behavior
Nocturnal and territorial, it hunts from a perch and swoops silently onto prey. Known for blending perfectly into tree trunks during daylight.
Diet
Feeds on insects, spiders, small mammals, birds, and amphibians. Often hunts near light sources that attract bugs.
Breeding
Breeding season begins in early spring. Females lay 2–5 eggs, and both parents care for the young. Nesting occurs in natural cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes.
7. Northern Saw-whet Owl
The Northern Saw-whet Owl is one of the smallest owl species in North America. It’s elusive, quiet, and often unnoticed due to its size and nocturnal habits. The name comes from its unique call, which resembles a saw being sharpened.
Identification
- Tiny, compact body with a large round head
- No ear tufts
- White facial disk with dark outlining
- Brown upperparts with white spots; streaked underparts
- Wingspan about 16–18 inches
Habitat
Favors dense coniferous or mixed forests, especially near streams. During migration and winter, it may be found in suburban areas or farmlands.
Behavior
Primarily nocturnal and solitary. It often remains motionless during the day and becomes active at dusk. Known for its repetitive “toot-toot” call during breeding season.
Diet
Feeds mostly on small rodents like mice and voles. Also consumes insects and small birds. Hunts from low perches in dense forest cover.
Breeding
Nests in tree cavities, especially old woodpecker holes. The female lays 4–7 eggs and incubates them while the male brings food. Chicks fledge in about 4 weeks.
8. Elf Owl
The Elf Owl is the smallest owl in the world, no larger than a sparrow. Despite its tiny size, it’s a fierce hunter of insects and thrives in arid regions of the southwestern U.S. and Mexico. Its high-pitched, chattering calls can be heard at dusk and dawn.
Identification
- Very small—about 5 to 6 inches tall
- No ear tufts
- Round head with yellow eyes and pale facial disk
- Brownish-gray plumage with light streaking
- Wingspan around 10–12 inches
Habitat
Prefers deserts, woodlands, and canyons with saguaro cacti, mesquite, or sycamore trees. Often nests in old woodpecker holes, especially in cacti.
Behavior
Strictly nocturnal and migratory. They become active after dusk and are difficult to spot due to their size and quiet nature.
Diet
Feeds on insects, spiders, centipedes, and small vertebrates. Hunts by swooping down from perches or catching prey in midair.
Breeding
Nests in tree or cactus cavities. The female lays 3–4 eggs, and both parents share chick-rearing duties. Commonly returns to the same site each breeding season.
9. Boreal Owl
The Boreal Owl is a small, shy owl that lives in northern forests and is rarely seen due to its secretive nature and preference for remote wilderness. It’s also called the Tengmalm’s Owl in Europe.
Identification
- Small size with a large, rounded head
- No ear tufts
- White facial disk with black border
- Brown body with white spots and streaks
- Wingspan about 20–24 inches
Habitat
Inhabits boreal forests and subalpine woods in North America and Eurasia. Prefers dense coniferous areas with plenty of snags and cavities for nesting.
Behavior
Mainly nocturnal and elusive. During the day, it roosts in dense cover. Males sing high-pitched, bell-like notes during breeding season.
Diet
Feeds on small mammals, particularly voles and mice. Occasionally eats birds and large insects. Hunts at night by listening for sounds under the snow or leaves.
Breeding
Nests in tree cavities or old woodpecker holes. The female lays 3–6 eggs and stays with the nestlings while the male provides food.
10. Long-eared Owl
The Long-eared Owl is a medium-sized, slender owl known for its long, upright ear tufts and secretive nature. It roosts in dense foliage during the day and becomes active at night. Though widespread, it’s rarely seen due to its camouflage and nocturnal habits.
Identification
- Long, prominent ear tufts
- Orange facial disk with dark outlines
- Streaked brown and gray plumage
- Slender body and rounded wings
- Wingspan about 35–40 inches
Habitat
Favors dense woodlands near open fields or grasslands. Often roosts in evergreen trees and hunts in nearby open areas.
Behavior
Roosts communally in winter but hunts alone. Mostly silent outside of breeding season. Uses stealth and flight agility to ambush prey.
Diet
Primarily eats small mammals like voles, mice, and shrews. Occasionally takes small birds, especially during winter scarcity.
Breeding
Nests in abandoned crow or hawk nests. The female lays 4–5 eggs. Chicks are cared for by both parents until they fledge in about 4 weeks.
11. Short-eared Owl
Unlike most owls, the Short-eared Owl is often active during the day, especially around dawn and dusk. It’s known for its floppy, moth-like flight and preference for open landscapes. This owl is a nomadic species that follows rodent populations.
Identification
- Small, barely visible ear tufts
- Yellow eyes with dark eye patches
- Tawny-buff body with streaked chest
- Rounded wings and facial disk
- Wingspan about 34–43 inches
Habitat
Prefers grasslands, marshes, tundra, prairies, and agricultural fields. Roosts on the ground or low vegetation.
Behavior
Often seen flying low over fields in search of prey. Known for its buoyant flight and wing claps during courtship displays.
Diet
Mainly rodents like voles and mice. Will also take birds, shrews, and insects depending on prey availability.
Breeding
Nests on the ground in concealed grass or low brush. Lays 4–7 eggs. Both parents protect the nest aggressively from predators.
12. Spotted Owl
The Spotted Owl is a medium-sized, dark-colored owl known for its reliance on old-growth forests. It’s a species of conservation concern in North America due to habitat loss and competition from invasive owl species like the Barred Owl.
Identification
- Dark brown plumage with white spots on the head, back, and chest
- No ear tufts
- Large, dark brown eyes
- Rounded wings and short tail
- Wingspan around 40–45 inches
Habitat
Found primarily in old-growth forests in the western U.S., especially in the Pacific Northwest, the Sierra Nevada, and parts of the Southwest. Prefers dense, mature forest canopies with layered structure.
Behavior
Spotted Owls are nocturnal and relatively sedentary. They roost in well-shaded trees during the day and are known to stay in a limited home range throughout the year.
Diet
Feeds on small mammals, mainly flying squirrels and woodrats. Also eats birds, reptiles, and large insects depending on the region.
Breeding
Nests in tree cavities, broken tree tops, or old raptor nests. Typically lays 2–3 eggs. The female incubates while the male brings food. Fledging occurs in 4–5 weeks, but juveniles stay with parents for several months.
13. Tawny Owl
The Tawny Owl is a robust, medium-sized owl native to Europe and parts of Asia. It’s known for its haunting hoot and is one of the most commonly encountered owls in woodlands across the UK.
Identification
- Stocky body with a large round head
- No ear tufts
- Dark eyes and a broad, pale facial disk
- Plumage varies from reddish-brown to gray-brown with mottling
- Wingspan approximately 37–41 inches
Habitat
Inhabits deciduous and mixed woodlands, parks, and gardens. Prefers dense tree cover for roosting and nesting.
Behavior
Primarily nocturnal, vocal, and territorial. Known for its classic hooting call often heard on calm nights. It rarely leaves its territory once established.
Diet
Feeds on a variety of prey including mice, voles, insects, frogs, and small birds. Hunts from a perch using short, fast flights to capture prey on the ground.
Breeding
Nests in tree cavities, nest boxes, or old buildings. Usually lays 2–4 eggs. The female incubates while the male provides food, and both parents raise the young.
14. Little Owl
The Little Owl is a small, charismatic species commonly seen perched during daylight hours in open countryside across Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa. It was introduced to the UK in the 19th century and adapted well to farmlands and hedgerows.
Identification
- Small size with flat-topped head and no ear tufts
- Yellow eyes with fierce, expressive brows
- Gray-brown body with white spotting
- Short tail and rounded wings
- Wingspan around 22–24 inches
Habitat
Favors open farmland, orchards, rocky outcrops, and ruins. Often seen in agricultural areas with scattered trees and buildings.
Behavior
Active at dawn and dusk, but often seen during the day perched on fences or walls. Has a bobbing motion when alert or disturbed and flies with quick wingbeats.
Diet
Feeds on insects, small mammals, birds, earthworms, and amphibians. Hunts by scanning from low perches or hopping along the ground.
Breeding
Nests in cavities of trees, walls, buildings, or nest boxes. Lays 3–5 eggs. Both parents feed the chicks, which fledge in about a month.
15. Eurasian Eagle-Owl
The Eurasian Eagle-Owl is one of the largest and most powerful owls in the world. Native to Europe and Asia, it dominates its territory with a deep hoot and striking orange eyes. This nocturnal hunter is a top predator in its ecosystem.
Identification
- Very large size with wingspan up to 75 inches
- Prominent ear tufts and striking orange eyes
- Buff to dark brown plumage with heavy streaking
- Broad head and powerful talons
- Deep, booming hoot call
Habitat
Inhabits forests, cliffs, rocky hillsides, and open woodlands. Prefers areas with abundant prey and sheltered nesting sites.
Behavior
Primarily nocturnal and solitary. Perches silently during the day and becomes active at dusk. Known for territorial hooting and fierce hunting skills.
Diet
Feeds on a wide variety of prey including rabbits, foxes, ducks, snakes, and even other birds of prey. Known to take down large animals with powerful talons.
Breeding
Nests on cliffs, ledges, or in sheltered ground areas. Lays 1–4 eggs. The female incubates while the male hunts. Young owls leave the nest after 6–8 weeks but remain dependent for several months.
16. Northern Hawk Owl
The Northern Hawk Owl is a medium-sized owl with the posture and hunting behavior of a hawk. It’s one of the few owls that hunts during the day and is known for its bold nature and long-distance vision.
Identification
- Long tail and narrow wings resembling a hawk
- Round head with no ear tufts
- White face bordered with black and bright yellow eyes
- Brown body with white spots and finely barred chest
- Wingspan around 27–32 inches
Habitat
Found in boreal forests of North America and Eurasia, especially near forest clearings, burned areas, and open woodland edges.
Behavior
Primarily diurnal. Perches high in trees and uses keen eyesight to locate prey from great distances, much like hawks.
Diet
Feeds on voles, mice, squirrels, and birds. Hunts by scanning from perches and diving swiftly onto prey.
Breeding
Nests in tree cavities, broken tree tops, or abandoned nests. Lays 3–7 eggs, with the female incubating and the male hunting for the family.
17. Blakiston’s Fish Owl
Blakiston’s Fish Owl is the largest owl species in the world and is extremely rare. Found in Russia, Japan, and parts of China, it is a powerful hunter of fish and aquatic animals, thriving in riverine forests.
Identification
- Massive size with a wingspan over 72 inches
- Prominent ear tufts and a large, bushy appearance
- Yellow eyes with a shaggy facial disk
- Brown plumage with heavy vertical streaks
- Feathered legs and strong talons adapted for fishing
Habitat
Inhabits riparian forests near cold, clear rivers and streams with abundant fish. Requires large, undisturbed old-growth forests.
Behavior
Mostly nocturnal but may hunt at dusk and dawn. Perches near water and dives to catch fish or wades into shallow streams.
Diet
Specializes in fish like trout and salmon. Also eats amphibians, water birds, and small mammals when available.
Breeding
Nests in large tree cavities or cliff hollows. Lays 1–2 eggs. Both parents care for the young, and nesting success depends on stable river ecosystems.
18. Spectacled Owl
The Spectacled Owl is a striking, large owl native to the tropical forests of Central and South America. Named for its bold facial markings that resemble a pair of spectacles, this owl is both secretive and powerful in its hunting.
Identification
- Dark brown upperparts with a creamy chest
- Distinct white “spectacle” markings around the yellow eyes
- Rounded head with no ear tufts
- Juveniles are white with a dark facial mask
- Wingspan around 35–40 inches
Habitat
Lives in tropical rainforests, secondary forests, and forest edges. Prefers dense canopy cover and is most often found near water sources.
Behavior
Nocturnal and solitary. Perches silently during the day and becomes active at night. It calls with a low, gruff, rhythmic hoot.
Diet
Feeds on mammals such as bats, rodents, and opossums. Also eats birds, frogs, and large insects. Known for striking prey from low perches.
Breeding
Nests in tree cavities or natural holes in large trees. Lays 1–2 eggs. The female incubates while the male brings food. Young owls may stay near parents for months.
19. Mottled Owl
The Mottled Owl is a medium-sized owl common in Latin America. It has a haunting hoot and is often heard echoing through tropical forests at night. Its adaptability allows it to thrive in a variety of wooded environments.
Identification
- Dark brown plumage with white mottling and streaks
- Round head without ear tufts
- Yellow eyes with a light facial disk bordered by a dark ring
- Medium size with a wingspan around 30–36 inches
Habitat
Found in forests, plantations, and wooded urban areas from Mexico to South America. Prefers dense forest canopies but also adapts to semi-open areas.
Behavior
Nocturnal and often vocal at night. Roosts in dense foliage during the day. Often sits motionless and is difficult to spot.
Diet
Eats insects, small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Hunts by perching silently and swooping down on prey.
Breeding
Nests in tree cavities or old woodpecker holes. Typically lays 1–2 eggs. Both parents feed the chicks until they are able to fly and hunt on their own.
20. Striped Owl
The Striped Owl is a beautifully marked, medium-sized owl native to Central and South America. It is often active at dusk and is recognized by its long ear tufts and bold streaking.
Identification
- Prominent ear tufts
- Tawny or buff background with bold vertical black streaks on the chest
- Dark facial disk bordered in white
- Yellow eyes
- Wingspan around 30–35 inches
Habitat
Prefers open woodlands, savannas, forest edges, wetlands, and agricultural fields. Often seen near marshes or grasslands with scattered trees.
Behavior
Crepuscular and nocturnal. Roosts in dense vegetation during the day and becomes active at dusk. Emits a range of calls, including whistles and screeches.
Diet
Feeds on small mammals, birds, amphibians, and large insects. Hunts from low perches and glides silently to catch prey on the ground.
Breeding
Little is known about nesting, but it likely uses natural cavities or ground nests hidden in tall grass. Typically lays 2–3 eggs and raises chicks with both parents involved.
21. Oriental Bay Owl
The Oriental Bay Owl is a small, rare, and secretive owl found in Southeast Asia. Known for its heart-shaped face and haunting, wailing calls, it is a unique member of the barn owl family.
Identification
- Heart-shaped facial disk with a vertical split look
- Reddish-brown plumage with white spotting
- Slender body and short tail
- Dark eyes and short legs
- Wingspan around 24–28 inches
Habitat
Inhabits lowland rainforests, mangroves, and bamboo thickets. Prefers dense, dark forest environments and is often hard to detect.
Behavior
Nocturnal and elusive. Usually roosts in tree hollows or dense cover during the day. Emits eerie, whistling, or crying calls at night.
Diet
Feeds on insects, frogs, small reptiles, and rodents. Hunts low to the ground, using stealth and sudden attacks.
Breeding
Breeds in tree cavities or hollow stumps. Typically lays 2–3 eggs. Both male and female participate in raising the young.
22. African Scops Owl
The African Scops Owl is a tiny, cryptically colored owl native to sub-Saharan Africa. Known for its soft, repeated “prrrp” call and excellent camouflage, it blends seamlessly into tree bark during the day.
Identification
- Small size with short ear tufts
- Gray or brown plumage with fine streaking and mottling
- Yellow eyes and a well-defined facial disk
- Extremely lightweight—about 60 grams
- Wingspan around 18–20 inches
Habitat
Found in savannas, woodlands, and dry forests throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Prefers areas with scattered trees and plenty of cavities for roosting and nesting.
Behavior
Nocturnal and extremely well-camouflaged. Roosts in tree hollows or branches during the day. Becomes active at dusk with a simple, rhythmic call.
Diet
Feeds primarily on insects like moths, beetles, and grasshoppers. Occasionally takes spiders, small reptiles, and amphibians.
Breeding
Nests in tree cavities or old woodpecker holes. Lays 2–4 eggs. The female incubates while the male brings food. Both parents feed the chicks once hatched.
23. Southern White-faced Owl
The Southern White-faced Owl is a small, charismatic owl found in southern Africa. It’s well-known for its expressive face and ability to change its posture dramatically when threatened.
Identification
- White facial disk outlined in black
- Prominent orange eyes and ear tufts
- Gray plumage with fine streaking
- Small size with a bold appearance
- Wingspan about 20–24 inches
Habitat
Occupies dry savannas, open woodlands, and bushveld. Often found in areas with scattered trees and termite mounds.
Behavior
Nocturnal and solitary. When threatened, it either fluffs up to appear larger or narrows its body and squints to mimic a broken tree branch.
Diet
Feeds on insects, small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Hunts from perches, diving swiftly onto prey with precision.
Breeding
Breeds in natural tree cavities or abandoned nests. Usually lays 2–3 eggs. Both parents care for the chicks, which fledge after about 4 weeks.
24. Jungle Owlet
The Jungle Owlet is a small, round-bodied owl native to the Indian subcontinent. Unlike many owls, it is active during the day and frequently vocal, especially in the morning and evening.
Identification
- Small, compact body with no ear tufts
- Grayish-brown plumage with fine white barring
- Large yellow eyes and a rounded head
- Wings and tail show distinctive banding in flight
- Wingspan around 18–22 inches
Habitat
Inhabits dry deciduous forests, wooded hills, and plantations. Found in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Behavior
Diurnal and crepuscular. Often seen perched in open branches or tree hollows during the day. Makes a rapid, repeating “kru-kru-kru” call.
Diet
Feeds on insects, lizards, small rodents, and birds. Actively hunts by flying short distances or hopping between branches.
Breeding
Nests in tree cavities. The female lays 2–4 eggs. Both parents participate in chick-rearing. Young owlets fledge in about a month.
25. Brown Fish Owl
The Brown Fish Owl is a large, powerful owl that specializes in hunting near water. It is found across South and Southeast Asia and is known for its shaggy appearance and piercing yellow eyes.
Identification
- Large size with heavy build and prominent ear tufts
- Brown body with dark streaks and a heavily feathered head
- Bright yellow eyes and bushy facial disk
- Legs and toes covered in bristles to help catch slippery prey
- Wingspan around 50–60 inches
Habitat
Prefers riverbanks, mangroves, lakesides, and forest streams. Found in India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and surrounding regions.
Behavior
Mostly nocturnal but may be active at dawn and dusk. Roosts in large trees near water during the day. Emits a deep, booming hoot.
Diet
Feeds primarily on fish, frogs, crabs, and other aquatic animals. Also consumes small mammals and reptiles when available.
Breeding
Nests on tree ledges, cliffs, or in hollows close to water. Lays 1–2 eggs. Both parents are involved in raising the chicks, which fledge after several weeks.
26. Collared Owlet
The Collared Owlet is one of the smallest owl species in Asia. Despite its size, it is bold and often active during the day, making it one of the more frequently seen owls in its range.
Identification
- Tiny size with rounded head and no ear tufts
- Brown upperparts with white spotting
- Distinct white collar on the nape
- Yellow eyes with dark facial outlines
- False “eye spots” on the back of the head
- Wingspan around 14–16 inches
Habitat
Found in montane and submontane forests across South and Southeast Asia. Prefers dense broadleaf or coniferous forest areas at higher elevations.
Behavior
Diurnal and vocal, often seen perched on exposed branches. Uses false eyespots on its nape to confuse predators.
Diet
Feeds on small birds, lizards, insects, and rodents. Hunts by darting out from perches with quick, direct flight.
Breeding
Nests in tree cavities, usually old woodpecker holes. Lays 3–5 eggs. Both parents feed the young, which fledge within a few weeks.
27. Flammulated Owl
The Flammulated Owl is a tiny, migratory owl known for its deep, soft hoots and secretive habits. Its name refers to its flame-like reddish markings. It breeds in North America and winters in Central America.
Identification
- Small size with short ear tufts
- Gray or reddish-brown plumage with dark streaking
- Large dark eyes and small bill
- Flame-like markings on the face and body
- Wingspan around 16–18 inches
Habitat
Prefers montane coniferous forests, especially pine and fir woodlands, in western North America. Migrates to Central America during winter.
Behavior
Nocturnal and very well-camouflaged. Seldom seen but often heard calling softly in a low, monotone “boop-boop-boop.”
Diet
Feeds almost entirely on insects like moths, beetles, and crickets. Hunts at night by fly-catching or pouncing from low perches.
Breeding
Nests in old woodpecker holes or natural cavities in trees. Lays 2–4 eggs. The male hunts while the female incubates, and both care for the chicks.
28. Whiskered Screech Owl
The Whiskered Screech Owl is a small, tree-dwelling owl found in mountainous forests of the southwestern U.S., Mexico, and Central America. It is known for its finely streaked plumage and trilling call.
Identification
- Small size with short ear tufts
- Grayish-brown plumage with fine vertical streaks
- White eyebrows and “whisker-like” feather tufts around the beak
- Yellow eyes and compact body
- Wingspan around 16–18 inches
Habitat
Lives in oak, pine-oak, and cloud forests at elevations above 3,000 feet. Prefers cool, wooded mountain slopes.
Behavior
Nocturnal and elusive. Roosts in tree cavities or dense foliage during the day. Emits a series of rapid trills at night.
Diet
Feeds mainly on insects, spiders, and small vertebrates such as lizards and mice. Hunts from low perches with short, fast flights.
Breeding
Nests in tree cavities, especially old woodpecker holes. Lays 2–4 eggs, with both parents participating in chick rearing.
29. Ferruginous Pygmy Owl
The Ferruginous Pygmy Owl is a small, bold owl commonly found in the Americas. It is active by day and often perches in open, visible spots, giving it a more frequent presence than many owls.
Identification
- Very small with a rounded head and no ear tufts
- Reddish-brown (ferruginous) upperparts with white underparts streaked with brown
- Yellow eyes and false “eye spots” on the back of the head
- Short tail and compact body
- Wingspan around 14–16 inches
Habitat
Found in dry forests, scrublands, savannas, and deserts from the southern U.S. to South America. Adapts well to human-altered environments.
Behavior
Active during the day (diurnal) and highly aggressive for its size. Known to attack birds much larger than itself.
Diet
Feeds on insects, small birds, reptiles, and mammals. Uses perch-and-pounce hunting methods.
Breeding
Nests in tree cavities or old woodpecker holes. Lays 3–5 eggs. Both parents feed the young, which fledge in 3–4 weeks.
30. Greater Sooty Owl
The Greater Sooty Owl is a large, elusive owl found in southeastern Australia and New Guinea. It’s known for its ghostly appearance, dark plumage, and eerie screeching calls echoing through forested valleys.
Identification
- Large, rounded head with no ear tufts
- Dark gray to sooty black plumage with white spots
- Large dark eyes set in a pale, heart-shaped facial disk
- Feathered legs and powerful feet
- Wingspan around 40–48 inches
Habitat
Inhabits temperate and subtropical rainforests, especially near streams and steep gullies. Prefers dense forest cover for roosting and nesting.
Behavior
Nocturnal and shy. Roosts in tree hollows or dense foliage during the day. Emits a high-pitched, screeching wail at night.
Diet
Feeds on small to medium mammals such as possums, bandicoots, and rodents. Occasionally takes birds and reptiles.
Breeding
Nests in large tree hollows or caves. Lays 1–2 eggs. The female incubates while the male provides food. Chicks remain in the nest for several weeks before fledging.
31. Rufous-legged Owl
The Rufous-legged Owl is a medium-sized, forest-dwelling owl found primarily in southern Chile and Argentina. It is shy and rarely seen, often hidden within the dense canopy of temperate rainforests.
Identification
- Medium size with rounded head and no ear tufts
- Dark brown upperparts with buff and white streaks
- Rufous-colored legs and streaked underparts
- Large dark eyes and pale facial disk
- Wingspan around 35–40 inches
Habitat
Prefers temperate and evergreen forests in the Andes and coastal regions of southern South America. Often found in old-growth woodlands with thick understory.
Behavior
Nocturnal and elusive. Roosts quietly in dense foliage during the day. Its call is a deep, muffled hoot repeated at intervals.
Diet
Feeds on small mammals, birds, and insects. Hunts from a perch, gliding silently to capture prey on the forest floor.
Breeding
Likely nests in tree cavities or on sheltered branches. Clutch usually consists of 1–2 eggs. Breeding behavior is still not fully documented.
32. Philippine Eagle-Owl
The Philippine Eagle-Owl is the largest owl species in the Philippines and one of the most powerful in Southeast Asia. It is critically endangered due to habitat loss and is rarely seen in the wild.
Identification
- Large body with a broad, rounded head
- Prominent ear tufts and striking orange-brown eyes
- Brownish upperparts with lighter underparts and streaking
- Thick, heavily feathered legs and large talons
- Wingspan about 48–52 inches
Habitat
Found only in the Philippines, primarily in lowland and secondary forests on larger islands such as Luzon, Samar, Leyte, and Mindanao. Prefers undisturbed areas near rivers and swamps.
Behavior
Nocturnal and solitary. Roosts in thick foliage during the day and hunts at night. Emits deep, booming hoots during courtship or territorial displays.
Diet
Feeds on rodents, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. Known to take domestic poultry near forest edges.
Breeding
Nests in large tree cavities or crotches high in the canopy. Lays 1–2 eggs. Due to rarity, detailed breeding behavior is still being studied.
