Barn Owl

Tyto alba

This ghostly bird lives in deserted buildings and hollow trees, and usually comes out only at night. It hunts its food -- almost entirely rodents -- in garbage dumps, neglected cemeteries, run-down farms, and empty lots in large cities. Owls do not digest fur and bone but periodically rid themselves of these in the form of regurgitated pellets. If you pull apart one of these pellets you may find tiny mouse skulls and other bones. (Be sure to wash your hands afterwards!)

Look For : Golden brown above and white below, a heart-shaped white facial disk, and dark eyes.

Length : 18".

Habitat : Fields, forest edges, cities; also barns, attics, church steeples.

Range : Widespread except northernmost regions.