The distinctive hooting call of the Barred Owl (Strix varia) is commonly described by the phrase “who cooks for you, who cooks for you all?”. This recognizable vocalization is a hallmark of North American woodlands. Beyond this signature sound, Barred Owls use a wide array of calls for various purposes, from attracting mates to defending territory.
The Barred Owl’s Distinctive Call
The distinctive hooting call of the Barred Owl (Strix varia) is commonly described by the phrase “who cooks for you, who cooks for you all?”. This vocalization is one of the most recognizable sounds of North American woodlands, often delivered in a rhythmic series of eight or nine notes. The loud, resounding call carries well through dense forest environments. Both sexes produce this signature hoot, and it can also be heard from juveniles, though they might omit some notes.
Beyond this famous hoot, the Barred Owl is known for a wide array of vocalizations. These can include barks, cackles, caws, gurgles, screams, trills, and even sounds described as monkey-like. Mated pairs often engage in elaborate duets, creating a complex mix of sounds, particularly during courtship. This variety makes the Barred Owl one of the most vocal owl species.
Understanding Owl Vocalizations
Owl vocalizations serve several important functions. One primary purpose is territorial defense, where owls use calls to protect their areas from other owls. This is particularly evident during the breeding season when owls protect nesting sites. These calls warn intruders, helping maintain stable boundaries.
Another purpose for owl calls is attracting mates and courtship. Male owls hoot to attract females, and in some species, males and females engage in duets to strengthen their pair bonds. Communication between parents and offspring is also facilitated by vocalizations, with chicks using begging calls when parents arrive with food. Owls also use shorter, sharper calls as warning signals or to indicate alarm.
Barred Owl Habitat and Behavior
Barred Owls are widely distributed across North America, primarily inhabiting the eastern United States and much of southern Canada. Their range has expanded westward, reaching the Pacific Northwest and southward into California. These owls prefer mature forests, particularly deciduous or mixed types, often found near bodies of water such as swamps, riverbanks, and wetlands. Old-growth forests are favored due to nesting sites in tree hollows and snags.
Barred Owls are largely nocturnal, typically roosting during the day in dense foliage or tree cavities. However, they can be active during daylight hours, especially when hunting or disturbed. They are opportunistic predators, primarily feeding on small mammals like mice, voles, and squirrels. Their diet also includes birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. They commonly hunt from a perch, silently swooping down to capture prey with their talons, and are even known to wade into shallow water to catch fish and crayfish.