Arizona is home to a remarkable variety of owl species, a direct result of the state’s diverse geography, which ranges from low-elevation deserts to high-altitude coniferous forests. This dramatic shift in climate and terrain creates distinct ecosystems, providing unique niches for different raptors. The presence of these nocturnal hunters adds fascination to the Southwestern landscape. Learning where and how to look for these birds requires understanding their adaptations to the state’s conditions.
Arizona’s Major Owl Species Groups
Arizona hosts over a dozen owl species, categorized by their size and preferred habitat. The largest and most widespread is the Great Horned Owl, easily identified by its prominent ear tufts and deep, resonant hooting call. This adaptable predator thrives across nearly all of Arizona’s habitats, from urban parks to the Sonoran Desert.
The state is also home to several small, cavity-nesting owls, including the tiny Elf Owl, the world’s smallest raptor, measuring only about 5 to 6 inches long. Elf Owls are summer residents, migrating south for the winter, and nest in abandoned woodpecker holes within saguaro cacti or sycamore trees. The Western Screech-Owl and the Whiskered Screech-Owl are also small species, distinguished by their mottled gray or brown plumage and noticeable ear tufts.
Specialized species occupy distinct environmental roles within the state. The Burrowing Owl, a year-round resident in southern Arizona, is unique for living in underground burrows, often in open grasslands and agricultural fields. The Mexican Spotted Owl lacks ear tufts and has dark eyes, preferring the dense, mature forests of steep canyons and high-elevation mountain ranges. Other species, such as the Long-eared Owl and the Northern Saw-whet Owl, are secretive forest dwellers, sometimes only seen during migration or in the winter months.
Geographic Distribution and Preferred Habitats
The distribution of Arizona’s owls is linked to the state’s distinct biomes, which include four major desert regions and several mountain ranges. The Sonoran Desert, characterized by saguaro cacti and riparian corridors, supports species adapted to arid environments, such as the Elf Owl and the Great Horned Owl. Elf Owls depend on cavities created by Gila Woodpeckers in large cacti and require the insects that flourish in seasonal conditions.
Riparian zones, areas along rivers and streams, are rich habitats, acting as green oases that support a greater density of prey and large nesting trees. Western Screech-Owls and Barn Owls often congregate in these wooded areas, especially near water sources. The high-elevation Sky Islands of southeastern Arizona, which are isolated mountain ranges, provide the cool, moist conditions needed by specialized species.
These mountain habitats, which transition from oak woodlands to Ponderosa Pine forests, are the primary range for the Whiskered Screech-Owl and the Mexican Spotted Owl. The Mexican Spotted Owl requires old-growth mixed-conifer forests with high canopy closure and utilizes the ledges and caves of deep, rocky canyons for roosting and nesting. Burrowing Owls are found in the open, flat grasslands of the south and central regions, often near agricultural fields, utilizing existing ground squirrel or prairie dog burrows for shelter.
Techniques for Locating and Identifying Owls
Locating owls is primarily an auditory exercise, as their nocturnal nature and excellent camouflage make visual sightings difficult. The most effective time to search is during the crepuscular hours—the periods of low light at dusk and dawn—as owls become active or return to their roosts. Learning the vocalizations of local species is the most important technique, as an owl’s call is often the only sign of its presence.
The Great Horned Owl produces a recognizable, rhythmic series of hoots, while the Western Screech-Owl is known for a distinctive accelerating series of soft, whistled notes, often described as a bouncing-ball rhythm. Elf Owls are identified by their high-pitched, chattering or yipping calls, which can sound like a small dog. Identifying the call helps narrow down the potential species and the direction of its location.
Visual identification relies on observing several key field marks, even in silhouette or low light. Ear tufts (tufts of feathers, not actual ears) are present on species like the Great Horned Owl and the Screech-Owls, but absent on the Barn Owl and the Mexican Spotted Owl. Eye color also serves as a distinguishing feature: the Barn Owl has dark eyes, while the Great Horned Owl and Burrowing Owl have bright yellow eyes.
During the daytime, successful owling involves searching for subtle signs beneath potential roosting trees, especially large conifers or dense riparian growth. These signs include “whitewash” (the white splash of droppings) and owl pellets (compact, regurgitated masses of undigested fur and bone). Finding these markers indicates a regular roosting spot, which may hold the owl camouflaged against the tree trunk or within the dense foliage.
Ethical Guidelines for Responsible Owl Watching
When searching for owls, prioritize the bird’s well-being over obtaining a photograph or a close view. Maintaining a respectful distance of at least 50 to 100 feet is necessary to avoid causing stress or forcing the owl to expend energy. This distance is important near known nesting sites, where disturbance can lead parents to abandon their eggs or young.
The use of call playback (broadcasting recorded owl calls to elicit a response) should be used minimally, if at all, as it can disrupt natural behaviors and territorial defense. Excessive use of playback can interfere with breeding, hunting, and communication, making it a highly impactful form of disturbance. If using a light source at night, employ a low-power flashlight with a red filter, as red light is less disruptive to an owl’s sensitive night vision.
Never use flash photography, especially at night, as the sudden burst of light can temporarily blind the bird and impair its hunting ability. When you find an owl, remain quiet and still, observing its behavior without attempting to approach or flush it from its perch. Respecting private property and adhering to all regulations ensures that these sensitive raptors can continue to thrive in Arizona’s diverse environments.