American Barn Owl
NameAmerican Barn Owl
Common NameBarn Owl
Scientific NameTyto alba
FamilyTytonidae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)38
Weight (g)450
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are golden-buff to tawny, finely speckled with grey and black spots. Underparts are typically white to pale buff, often with scattered dark spots. The facial disc is pure white or pale buff, bordered by a darker rufous-brown rim.
Vocalization / CallPrimarily known for a long, drawn-out, eerie screech or hiss, rather than the typical hooting of other owls. They also produce various hisses, snores, and clicks.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound on all continents except Antarctica, making it the most widespread land bird species. It inhabits temperate and tropical regions globally, including North and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia.
Identifying Featuresheart-shaped facial disc, pale plumage, silent flight, nocturnal hunting, long legs
Description
The Barn Owl is a medium-sized, pale owl with a distinctive heart-shaped facial disc. It is primarily nocturnal, known for its silent flight and exceptional hearing, which it uses to hunt small mammals in open country.
