Various owl species inhabit Georgia, thriving across the state’s diverse ecosystems. Georgia’s rich biodiversity provides suitable environments that support several owl populations. These nocturnal birds are a part of the state’s natural wildlife, known for their distinctive calls.
Common Owl Species in Georgia
Several owl species are commonly found throughout Georgia. The Great Horned Owl, a large and widespread species, measures between 17 to 25 inches long with a wingspan of 3 to 5 feet. It features prominent ear tufts and mottled plumage in shades of white, brown, gray, and black, providing effective camouflage. Their deep, soft hoots, a sequence of “hoo-h’HOO-hoo-hoo,” can be heard across considerable distances, with females having a higher pitch than males.
The Barred Owl is recognizable by its round head, dark eyes, and lack of ear tufts. This medium-sized owl, typically 16 to 25 inches long with a wingspan of 38 to 49 inches, displays white, gray, and brown plumage with distinctive barring and streaking. Its call is a characteristic eight to nine-note hooting pattern resembling “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you-all?”.
The Eastern Screech-Owl is Georgia’s most common owl, a small species ranging from 6 to 10 inches in length. These stocky owls have large, round heads, yellow eyes, and ear tufts that can be raised or flattened. Their intricately patterned plumage comes in either rusty brown or dark gray, allowing them to blend seamlessly with tree bark. Despite their name, they produce a descending, whinny-like call and a monotone purring trill.
Barn Owls are also present in Georgia, known for their pale, heart-shaped faces and dark eyes. These medium-sized owls have light brown or gray coloring, long wings, and a short, square tail. Barn Owls do not hoot; instead, they emit a long, harsh screech or hissing sound.
Owl Habitats in Georgia
Owls in Georgia occupy diverse habitats, reflecting the state’s varied geography. The Great Horned Owl can be found in nearly any environment where trees and suitable nesting sites exist, including forests, prairies, and urban areas. They are often seen in woodlots bordering open fields in agricultural regions and city parks.
Barred Owls typically inhabit dense forests, mixed woodlands, and swamps, thriving in areas with closed canopies and nearby water sources. These owls are common in the Appalachian forests and can also adapt to suburban backyards. Eastern Screech-Owls are prevalent in most wooded environments, including open woodlands, suburban areas, and backyards with mature trees. They often use natural tree cavities for roosting and nesting.
Barn Owls are abundant in agricultural areas. They also inhabit regions along marshes and coastal riverine systems, often roosting in barns and other abandoned buildings. Short-eared Owls, though less common and primarily winter visitors to Georgia, prefer open areas like grasslands, meadows, and areas with low vegetation.
Identifying Owls in Georgia
Identifying owls in Georgia involves recognizing their unique vocalizations and distinct visual cues. The Great Horned Owl’s deep, rhythmic hoots, a sequence of “hoo-h’HOO-hoo-hoo,” are a primary identifier, especially during late fall and early winter when they are most vocal. Visually, their prominent ear tufts and large yellow eyes set within a barred face are key features. Their plumage, a mix of gray, brown, black, and white, provides excellent camouflage against tree bark.
Barred Owls are readily identified by their characteristic “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you-all?” call, which can be heard day or night. Barred Owls lack ear tufts and have large, dark brown eyes. Their plumage features horizontal barring on the chest and vertical streaking on the belly, helping them blend into wooded environments.
Eastern Screech-Owls are often detected by their distinctive trilling calls, a series of accelerating hoots or a descending, whinny-like sound. These small owls can be challenging to spot due to their size and camouflage. Look for their short ear tufts and yellow eyes. They frequently roost in tree cavities, so observing songbirds mobbing a tree might indicate a hidden screech-owl.
Barn Owls are identified by their unique, harsh screeches, which contrast with the hooting of other owl species. Visually, their pale, heart-shaped faces are a distinguishing characteristic, along with their light undersides. They have dark eyes and a medium-sized body with pale brown or gray plumage.