Mississippi provides a rich environment for several species of nocturnal owls. The state’s diverse landscape, ranging from dense bottomland hardwood forests to expansive agricultural fields, supports a varied population of resident and occasional migratory owls. These ecological zones ensure that different species find ideal hunting grounds and nesting sites throughout the year.
The Primary Owl Species of Mississippi
Four species are the most common and widely distributed across Mississippi: the Barred Owl, the Great Horned Owl, the Eastern Screech Owl, and the Barn Owl. The Barred Owl is often considered the most common resident, recognized by its large, round head, dark brown eyes, and lack of ear tufts. This medium-large owl, measuring 17 to 20 inches, has plumage marked with horizontal bars on the chest and vertical stripes on the belly.
The Great Horned Owl is the largest and most powerful of Mississippi’s common owls, easily identifiable by its prominent feather tufts and striking yellow eyes. Its coloration is a mottled mix of gray and reddish-brown, allowing it to blend into various environments. Measuring up to 25 inches, this bird is capable of preying on animals much larger than itself.
The Eastern Screech Owl is the smallest resident species, measuring between 6.3 and 9.8 inches long, and is known for its camouflage. This small owl occurs in three distinct color morphs—gray, brown, and reddish—which help it disappear against tree bark. It is a permanent, year-round resident wherever sufficient trees are present.
The Barn Owl is recognizable by its distinct heart-shaped face, a pale breast, and dark eyes. This medium-sized species, generally 12.5 to 16 inches long, is a year-round resident across the state. Unlike the other common species, the Barn Owl lacks a deep hooting call and is primarily found in areas with open fields for hunting.
Habitats and Regional Distribution Across the State
Mississippi’s geography, defined by its major ecological regions, directly influences the distribution of its owl populations. The Delta and low-lying floodplain areas, characterized by dense, wet bottomland hardwood forests, provide the ideal habitat for the Barred Owl. These owls thrive in older, thickly wooded areas near water sources, such as the Delta National Forest.
The Great Horned Owl demonstrates greater adaptability, making its home in environments from mixed woodlands to the edges of open agricultural fields. Its presence is common across the state, including the central and northern counties, reflecting its ability to hunt in both forested and semi-open landscapes. The Holly Springs National Forest, with its mix of hardwood and softwood, is a suitable location.
The Eastern Screech Owl exhibits the highest tolerance for human development, often residing in wooded, suburban, and urban settings across the entire state. As long as there are trees with cavities for nesting, this small owl can establish a territory, making it a frequent backyard resident. This adaptability allows it to be found in virtually any county.
The Barn Owl prefers open country, focusing its activity on grasslands, meadows, and agricultural areas. These owls are concentrated in regions with extensive farmland, such as the north central counties, where they hunt rodents over open ground. They frequently utilize abandoned structures, silos, or tree cavities along the edges of these fields for roosting and nesting.
Recognizing Mississippi’s Owls by Sight and Sound
Identifying the owls of Mississippi is often accomplished by listening to their vocalizations, as they are primarily nocturnal. The Barred Owl’s call is the most easily recognized, sounding like a rhythmic, eight-note question often translated as “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all?”. Hearing this distinct hooting echo through a swamp or dense woods is a strong indicator of its presence.
The Great Horned Owl produces the classic, deep owl sound, characterized by a series of low, rhythmic hoots, typically in a four or five-note sequence. This call is less complex than the Barred Owl’s and can be heard over long distances, often near tree lines bordering open fields. Males and females use these calls to communicate and establish territorial boundaries.
Despite its name, the Eastern Screech Owl’s most common vocalization is not a screech but rather a descending, mournful whinny or a long, monotonic trill. This small owl’s calls are often heard in wooded residential areas at dusk or just before dawn. The Barn Owl rarely hoots and instead communicates using a raspy, high-pitched screech or a series of hissing sounds.
While sound is the best clue, a visual sighting is possible during dusk or dawn. Great Horned Owls are sometimes spotted silhouetted against the sky on utility poles or the dead snags of large trees. The other species use camouflage, with the Eastern Screech Owl blending seamlessly with bark and the Barred Owl preferring the deep shadows of the forest canopy.