Barred Owl

Strix varia

This owl is most often seen by those who seek it out in its dark retreat, usually a thick grove of trees in lowland forest. There it rests quietly during the day. It sometimes calls in the daytime and if disturbed will fly easily from one grove of trees to another. It emerges at night to feed on rodents, birds, frogs, and crayfish. In recent years, this owl has been expanding its range in Washington, Oregon, and California.

Look For : Dark eyes, bars on chest and neck, and a streaked belly. Black-ringed, gray face.

Length : 20".

Habitat : Swampy forests.

Range : Southern Canada; eastern U.S., Pacific Northwest.