Owl

Common Species Examples:

• Tyto alba (Barn Owl)

• Bubo virginianus (Great Horned Owl)

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    Where They Live

Owls are found on every continent except Antarctica. Depending on the species, they live in:

• Forests, mountains, grasslands, deserts, and even cities

• Tree hollows, barns, attics, cliffs, and nest boxes

             Fun Facts

• Owls can rotate their heads up to 270 degrees—but not all the way around!

• They are nocturnal hunters with exceptional night vision and almost silent flight.

• Owl ears are asymmetrical, helping them precisely locate sounds in the dark.

• A group of owls is called a “parliament.”

• Owl eyes are tube-shaped, which helps them see far but means they can’t move their eyes—they must turn their heads.

        Endangered Status

Owl status varies by species:

Species Status 

Great Horned Owl Least Concern Widespread and adaptable across the Americas

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Barn Owl Least Concern globally Declining in some areas due to habitat loss

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Spotted Owl Threatened Facing major habitat threats in U.S. Pacific Northwest

Blakiston’s Fish

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Owl Endangered One of the rarest owls, found in Russia and Japan

              Summary

        Overall, many owls face:

• Habitat destruction

• Rodenticide poisoning

• Vehicle collisions