Mysterious sounds in the quiet of the night often evoke images of nocturnal creatures. Deep, resonant calls frequently lead listeners to assume an owl is nearby. This prompts many to wonder about the true sources of these sounds.
Signature Owl Calls
Owls produce a diverse range of vocalizations, though the characteristic “hoot” is most widely recognized. Great Horned Owls are known for their deep, sonorous hoots, often rhythmic and carrying for miles. These calls are used to mark territory and attract mates. Barred Owls have a distinct eight-note call, commonly interpreted as “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all?” They also produce cackles, hoots, caws, and gurgles, particularly during duets. While many owls hoot, some, like the Barn Owl, primarily emit a raspy screech during distress or as a warning.
Mimics of the Night
Several animals produce sounds that can be mistaken for owls. The Mourning Dove, a common bird, has a soft, drawn-out cooing, often described as a mournful “hoo hoo hoo,” which can be confused with a distant owl’s hoot. These doves are often heard during the day, but their calls can extend into the evening. Great Blue Herons, large wading birds, emit a deep, squawking or croaking sound. This may be mistaken for a deeper, more guttural owl call, especially when they are startled or vocalizing near water.
The American Bullfrog, a large amphibian, has a deep, resonant call that some describe as a low-pitched bellow or a “jug-o-rum” sound, resembling a foghorn. These vocalizations can be heard both day and night in wetland environments. Other birds, such as the Steller’s Jay and Rock Pigeon, can also produce calls that might be confused with owls. Steller’s Jays sometimes mimic owl sounds, while Rock Pigeons make “whoo-hoo” sounds at dusk or dawn that can resemble owl hoots.
Key Distinctions in Sound
Discerning an actual owl call from a mimic involves paying attention to specific auditory and contextual cues. Owls employ a steady, repetitive hooting pattern for territorial claims and mate attraction. In contrast, mimics like the Mourning Dove have a more consistent “coo-OO-oo” that lacks the varied rhythm of an owl’s hoot. Tone and pitch are also indicators; most owl hoots are deep and resonant, while some mimics, such as the American Bullfrog, produce a low, droning sound.
The time of day can provide a significant clue; while some owls, like the Barred Owl, may call during the day, most owl species are primarily nocturnal, making their distinctive calls at night. Mourning Doves, however, are diurnal and frequently call throughout the day. Habitat is another distinguishing factor; Great Blue Herons are typically found near water bodies, whereas many owl species prefer wooded areas. Considering the combination of rhythm, tone, time, and habitat can help differentiate between a genuine owl call and the sounds of other creatures of the night.