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Spotting and Identifying Backyard Owls
Birdwatching has been a pastime enjoyed by individuals across the world for centuries. There’s something uniquely captivating in observing the habits, routines, and characteristic features of various bird species. Among the broad spectrum of bird species, owls hold a special place both for their distinctive looks and nocturnal nature. Here’s everything you need to know about spotting and identifying backyard owls.
Understanding Owls
Owls belong to the family Strigidae, consisting of over 200 species. These nocturnal birds of prey are known globally for their unique behaviors and features that set them apart from other bird species, such as their distinctive facial disks, asymmetrical ears for pinpoint hearing, and their ability to rotate their necks up to 270 degrees.
Types of Backyard Owls
1. Great Horned Owl
The great horned owl (Bubo virginianus) is one of the most common backyard owls in North America. They are large and powerful birds, with ‘horns’ – tufts of feathers protruding above their large, yellow eyes. Their plumage varies in color from a mix of mottled gray, brown, white, and black.
2. Eastern Screech Owl
Smaller than its horned peer, the Eastern screech owl (Megascops asio) can be spotted in various environments. It has intricate grey or reddish-brown patterns with piercing ruby or yellow eyes. Listen out for their eerie, horse-like whinnying call.
3. Barn Owl
Barn Owls (Tyto alba) are a beloved species recognized by their heart-shaped facial disk and dark eyes. They exhibit light gray plumage on their upper parts and white underneath. Known to colonize, barn owls often favor human-made structures as their nesting spots.
Identifying Owls by Their Calls
In addition to their physical characteristics, backyard owls can also be identified by their distinctive calls. The ‘who-who’ sound often attributed to owls can help identify a certain species. Remarkably, the Eastern screech owl emits its distinctive trilling sound, while the barn owl produces hissing and snoring sounds.
Spotting Owls
Here are some practical tips that could increase your chances of spotting backyard owls.
1. Timing
As owls are primarily nocturnal, timing is key. They tend to be most active during dusk and dawn.
2. Location
Owls prefer quiet and dimly lit areas. Look around trees, lofts, barns, or open fields for potential owl habitats.
3. Sounds
Listening to owls’ calls can offer clues about their locations. Owls often call out while hunting or communicating with other owls.
Safety Considerations
Respecting the owls and their natural habitats should be your top priority when trying to spot them. Here’s what to consider:
1. Keep a Safe Distance
Always maintain a respectful distance when observing owls. Getting too close could disturb them or make them feel threatened.
2. Do Not Use Flash Photography
Flash photography can disorient and stress owls, affecting their hunting abilities and routines.
3. Do Not Disturb Nesting Owls
Disturbing a nesting owl can lead to the abandonment of eggs or fledglings, causing serious harm to the owl population.
The magic and thrill of spotting a backyard owl go beyond the aesthetic delight of their unique appearances and mesmerizing eyes. It hits deeper into appreciating nature’s fascinating mysteries and the importance of preserving these creatures’ ecosystems. Despite the challenge and patience needed in spotting owls, the reward of such observations makes the effort truly worthwhile.
