Barred Owl
NameBarred Owl
Common NameBarred Owl
Scientific NameStrix varia
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)104.5
Length (cm)51.5
Weight (g)775
Plumage DetailsPlumage is mottled brown and white, with horizontal barring on the upper breast and vertical streaking on the belly. The face is pale with concentric barring around the dark brown eyes. The beak is yellow.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive series of eight to nine hoots, often described as 'Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all?' with a rising inflection at the end.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across eastern and central North America, extending into parts of Canada and the Pacific Northwest.
Identifying Featuresdark eyes, yellow beak, round head (no ear tufts), horizontal barring on chest, vertical streaking on belly, mottled brown and white plumage
Description
The Barred Owl is a large, stocky owl with a rounded head and no ear tufts. It is known for its distinctive 'Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all?' call, often heard in mature forests and swamps.
