Owls, with their silent flight and nocturnal habits, are captivating birds of prey. They play a distinct role in their ecosystems. Ohio’s diverse landscapes, from woodlands to open fields and suburban areas, provide homes for a fascinating array of owl species.
Common Owl Species of Ohio
Ohio is home to several owl species regularly encountered throughout the year.
The Great Horned Owl is a widespread resident, known for its large size and prominent ear tufts. Its gray, brown, black, and white plumage provides effective camouflage. Its deep “Hoo H’ Hoo Hoo Hoo” hoot can carry for miles, often heard in mixed forests and open woodlands throughout Ohio.
The Barred Owl is common in Ohio, frequently inhabiting mature forests, especially near water. This medium-sized owl has horizontal stripes, a heart-shaped facial disk, and dark eyes, lacking ear tufts. Its characteristic call, “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all?”, can sometimes be heard during daylight.
The Eastern Screech-Owl is Ohio’s most frequently encountered owl, found in every county. These small owls have ear tufts and dark beaks. Their gray, reddish-brown, or brown coloration allows them to blend with tree bark. Despite their name, their vocalization is a trilling whistle, often heard in wooded areas, including city parks and suburban backyards.
The Barn Owl, historically common, has declined in Ohio due to habitat loss. It is identified by its distinctive white, heart-shaped face and pale plumage. Barn Owls nest in barns and other old structures, requiring large expanses of grasslands for hunting. They are year-round residents but are a rarer sighting.
Less Common and Migratory Owls
Ohio also hosts several less common or migratory owls.
The Northern Saw-Whet Owl, North America’s smallest owl, is a common winter resident in Ohio. These tiny owls roost in conifer forests with dense thickets or evergreens near open fields.
The Long-Eared Owl is an elusive winter migrant in Ohio. It has prominent ear tufts, which can lead to confusion with the larger Great Horned Owl, though it is smaller. They frequent low thickets and conifers near open grasslands and prairies, hunting over fields.
Short-Eared Owls are primarily winter visitors to Ohio, with a small year-round population in the north. They prefer open areas like grasslands, marshes, and farm fields for hunting. They are sometimes spotted in open fields during the day or near airports in winter.
Snowy Owls are rare winter visitors to Ohio, migrating south from their Arctic breeding grounds. These large birds have shining yellow eyes and a rounded head without ear tufts. They are often seen near Lake Erie during winter, favoring open spaces like agricultural fields, farms, and airports.
Extremely rare sightings in Ohio include the Northern Hawk Owl, resembling both an owl and a hawk, with a squared-off head and long tail. This daytime owl typically resides far north but may venture into Ohio during severe winters. The Great Gray Owl, North America’s largest owl, is also rarely spotted, with occasional winter migrations. The Boreal Owl, a small species with distinct black and white facial markings, is another very rare visitor.
Observing Owls in Ohio
Observing owls in Ohio requires understanding their habits and environments. Most owls are nocturnal, but some, like the Snowy Owl, are diurnal. Dawn and dusk are prime times to hear or spot owls, as many species are vocal and active. Listening for their distinct calls is an effective way to detect their presence.
Owls inhabit diverse landscapes, including forests, woodlands, and suburban parks. Areas with abundant prey, like meadows or fields adjacent to wooded areas, are prime search locations. When observing, walk quietly and avoid sudden movements, as owls have exceptional hearing and startle easily.
Maintain a respectful distance from any owl for its well-being. Use binoculars for clear viewing without disturbance. Limit observation time to avoid stressing the owl or disrupting its natural behaviors. At night, minimize bright lights, as they disrupt an owl’s night vision. Recognize signs of stress, like wide eyes or rapid blinking, and increase your distance.