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| Barred Owl |
BIRD O THE DAY
The Barred Owl (Strix varia) is a large typical owl native to North America. It goes by many other names, including Eight Hooter, Rain Owl, Wood Owl, and Striped Owl, but is probably best known as the Hoot Owl based on its call. Breeding habitats are dense woods across Canada, the eastern United States, and south to Mexico. In recent years it has spread to the northwestern United States, having gradually spread further south in the west. The Barred Owl's nest is often in a tree cavity, often ones created by pileated woodpeckers. The Barred Owl is a very opportunistic predator. The principal prey of this owl are meadow voles, followed by mice and shrews of various species.
