Owls are nocturnal predators that inhabit diverse environments across Texas. These birds play an important role in the state’s ecosystems, primarily as natural pest controllers. Their silent flight and keen senses allow them to effectively hunt in the darkness. The presence of owls contributes to the ecological balance of Texas, from its dense forests to its expansive deserts.
Common Owl Species in Texas
Texas is home to several owl species, each with unique features. The Great Horned Owl is a large, widespread raptor, measuring 18 to 25 inches. It is known for its prominent ear tufts resembling horns and a deep, resonant hoot, often a “hoo-hoo hooooo hoo-hoo” pattern, with females having a slightly higher pitch. These adaptable owls are found across the state, thriving in various habitats, including woodlands, agricultural areas, and suburban environments.
The Barred Owl is another common resident, measuring 16 to 25 inches. Distinguished by its round head, distinct dark brown eyes (unlike the yellow eyes of many other owls), and lack of ear tufts, it has brownish-white plumage with horizontal chest bars. Its diagnostic call sounds like “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you-all?”
The Barn Owl is recognized by its pale, heart-shaped white facial disc and dark eyes. Unlike many other owls, it does not hoot, instead producing a harsh, raspy screech. These highly efficient rodent hunters have pale underparts contrasting with buffy-cinnamon upper parts and are found across Texas.
Small owls like the Eastern Screech-Owl and Western Screech-Owl also inhabit Texas. Eastern Screech-Owls are 8-10 inches tall, with small ear tufts that can be raised or flattened, and can have either gray or reddish-brown plumage. Their calls include a descending whinny and a long trill. Western Screech-Owls are similarly sized, usually gray with ear tufts, but are best identified by their accelerating “bouncing ping-pong ball” series of whistles.
The Burrowing Owl is unique for its long legs and ground-dwelling habits. These owls lack ear tufts and have sandy-brown feathers with white or sandy spots. Often found standing near burrows, they are active during the day, unlike most owls, and can often be seen bobbing their heads. Their calls include a two-note cooing sound and a rattlesnake-like hiss when threatened.
The Elf Owl, the smallest owl in North America, measures only 5-6 inches. These tiny owls lack ear tufts and have a short tail and a V-shaped white stripe above their eyes. They primarily feed on insects, and their calls are described as high-pitched yaps and chuckles.
Habitats and Daily Rhythms
Owls in Texas occupy a wide array of habitats, adapting to the state’s varied landscapes. Great Horned Owls are highly versatile, found in deciduous and coniferous forests, swamps, orchards, arid deserts, grasslands, and even suburban areas across the entire state. Barred Owls prefer dense, mature forests, particularly those near rivers, streams, or swamps. These environments provide the large trees and cavities they use for nesting.
Barn Owls are widely distributed and can be found in open country, including agricultural fields, grasslands, and even urban and suburban areas, often near human structures like barns where their prey is abundant. Eastern and Western Screech-Owls inhabit woodlands, clearings, and urban environments with suitable trees and cavities. They frequently use tree cavities or old woodpecker holes for roosting and nesting.
Burrowing Owls are unique for their preference for open, treeless areas such as grasslands, prairies, and deserts. They often utilize burrows excavated by other animals like prairie dogs or ground squirrels for shelter and nesting. Elf Owls are found in arid regions, including the Big Bend area and parts of the lower Rio Grande Valley, where they inhabit desert lowlands and canyons with large cacti or trees. Most owls are primarily nocturnal, hunting from dusk through the night and roosting quietly during the day in concealed locations. Burrowing Owls are an exception, often active during daylight hours.
Supporting Texas Owl Populations
Protecting Texas owl populations involves several practical steps. Maintaining natural habitats is important, which includes preserving existing wooded areas and native vegetation. Providing diverse food sources by encouraging natural prey populations, such as rodents and insects, helps ensure owls have enough to eat. This can involve leaving patches of tall grasses or creating small brush piles.
Minimizing the use of pesticides is also beneficial, as these chemicals can harm owls by affecting their food sources. Organic gardening methods offer an alternative that supports a healthier ecosystem for owls and their prey. Installing nesting boxes can offer safe roosting and breeding sites for certain species, like Barn Owls and Screech-Owls, particularly in areas where natural tree cavities are scarce. Respecting their space and observing them from a distance helps prevent disturbance, especially during nesting periods.