Owls are present in Southern California, with the region’s diverse ecosystems supporting a variety of species. The region’s varied landscapes provide suitable environments for these nocturnal, and sometimes diurnal, birds of prey. Their presence highlights the rich biodiversity.
Common Owl Species in Southern California
Southern California is home to several common owl species, each with distinct characteristics. The Great Horned Owl is a widespread and frequently observed raptor. These large owls, 18 to 25 inches long with a 36 to 60-inch wingspan, feature prominent ear tufts and mottled brown plumage with a white throat patch. They are equally at home in deserts, wetlands, forests, grasslands, and suburban areas.
Another prevalent species is the Barn Owl, known for its striking heart-shaped facial disc and pale, often white, plumage. These medium-sized owls, 15 to 20 inches tall, possess long, feathered legs. Their exceptional hearing, aided by asymmetrically placed ears, allows them to locate prey in complete darkness.
The Western Screech-Owl is a smaller, stocky owl with round heads and yellow eyes. They have tiny feather tufts and mottled grey feathers for camouflage against tree bark. These owls are permanent residents in California and are often heard before they are seen due to their shy nature.
Burrowing Owls live underground in burrows, often repurposed from ground squirrels or badgers. They are small, about 10 inches long, and are more active during the day than most other owl species. These owls have long legs, which help them run on the ground.
The Northern Pygmy-Owl is a petite species, about 6.5 to 7.5 inches tall with a long tail and yellow eyes. They are characterized by dark, white-ringed “false eyes” on the back of their heads, which may deter predators. Unlike many owls, Northern Pygmy-Owls frequently hunt during daylight hours.
Where Owls Live in Southern California
Southern California’s varied geography offers a range of habitats for these owl species.
Great Horned Owls are highly adaptable, found in diverse environments from deserts to urban parks. They often nest in dense woodlands or human-altered landscapes, including suburban areas and national parks.
Barn Owls thrive in open country, including grasslands, agricultural fields, and suburban areas, often nesting in abandoned barns, tree cavities, or cliff sides. They are commonly sighted near the state’s west coast and in southwestern deserts.
The Western Screech-Owl prefers open woodlands and tree cavities for nesting, making them common residents in areas with mature trees. They can be found in a variety of habitats, from oak trees to cacti.
Burrowing Owls primarily inhabit open, dry regions such as grasslands, rangelands, and desert floors. They depend on existing burrows for shelter, and their presence is notable in areas like the Imperial Valley. While often found in agricultural lands, suitable habitat can be limited to peripheral bands along field edges.
Northern Pygmy-Owls are typically found in forest habitats, particularly near meadows, streams, and other open areas at varying elevations. They are present in the Transverse Ranges, such as the San Gabriel and San Bernardino mountains.
Owl Behaviors and Sounds
Owls exhibit a range of behaviors, dictated by their predatory lifestyles and unique adaptations.
Most owl species are nocturnal, active primarily at night, utilizing exceptional low-light vision and acute hearing to hunt. Barn Owls are more nocturnal than many other owls, hunting at dark by sweeping fields on silent wings to catch prey. Their specialized feathers allow for nearly soundless flight, preventing prey from detecting their approach.
Hunting techniques vary; Great Horned Owls often perch high and swoop down on prey, while Northern Pygmy-Owls are perch-and-pounce hunters. Their diet consists of small mammals like rodents, rabbits, and shrews, but can also include birds, reptiles, and insects. Great Horned Owls are opportunistic, eating almost anything, including skunks, due to their immunity to the musk.
Owl vocalizations are a primary way to identify their presence, as many species have distinct calls. The Great Horned Owl is known for its low-pitched, hooting call, often described as “hoo-hoo-hoo hoo hoo”. In contrast, Barn Owls do not hoot but instead produce a loud, drawn-out hissing scream or a series of clicks from their beak. Western Screech-Owls produce high-pitched screeches, barks, chuckles, and whistles. Northern Pygmy-Owls have a characteristic “toot” call, which can be a series of evenly spaced high-pitched notes.
Coexisting with Southern California Owls
Coexisting with Southern California owls involves recognizing their ecosystem role and adopting practices that support their well-being.
Respecting their space is important, especially around nesting or roosting sites, to avoid disturbing them. Observing owls from a distance using binoculars can provide rewarding experiences without causing them stress.
Habitat preservation plays a significant part in owl conservation. Protecting natural areas—woodlands, grasslands, and desert environments—ensures owls have adequate hunting grounds and nesting locations. Urban development can lead to habitat loss, particularly for species like the Burrowing Owl, whose populations have declined due to such pressures. Maintaining existing tree cavities and snags, used by many owls for nesting, also contributes to their survival.
If an injured owl is discovered, contact local wildlife rescue organizations or animal control. These professionals have the expertise and resources to provide proper care and rehabilitation. Attempting to handle an injured owl without training can cause further harm or injury. Supporting efforts to reduce rodenticides is also beneficial, as these toxins can indirectly harm owls preying on rodents.