Arizona’s diverse landscapes, from arid deserts to pine-oak forests, provide a home for many owl species. These nocturnal birds of prey, with their silent flight and keen senses, have long captivated human interest.
Arizona’s Distinctive Owl Species
The Elf Owl, the world’s smallest owl, is a prominent species in Arizona, particularly in saguaro deserts and wooded canyons. This tiny owl measures around 5 to 6 inches tall and weighs approximately 1.4 ounces. Elf Owls nest in abandoned woodpecker holes in saguaro cacti or trees and are primarily insectivorous, even preying on scorpions after removing their stingers. They produce high-pitched, yapping or chuckling calls that resemble a puppy’s bark.
Burrowing Owls are unique among owls for their ground-dwelling habits and activity during the day. These small owls, typically 7-10 inches tall, have mottled brown plumage with sandy-pale spots and bright yellow eyes. They inhabit open grasslands, prairies, and deserts, often using burrows dug by other animals for nesting and roosting. They have a distinctive bobbing gait and a call described as a series of coos or chuckles.
The Great Horned Owl is one of Arizona’s most widespread owls, known for its large size, prominent ear tufts, and deep hooting call. These adaptable owls, measuring 18-25 inches in length with a wingspan up to 60 inches, display mottled gray-brown plumage with a reddish-brown face and a white throat patch. They thrive in a variety of habitats, including forests, deserts, and urban areas. Great Horned Owls are powerful nocturnal predators, capable of preying on a wide range of animals, from small rodents to skunks; their calls are often heard at dawn and dusk.
Other Notable Arizona Owls
The Western Screech-Owl is a common year-round resident found throughout Arizona in various habitats, including urban areas, forests, and deserts. These small owls, measuring 7-10 inches, have streaked bluish-gray, gray, or dark brown plumage and distinct ear tufts. Their call, an accelerating series of short whistles or a trill that sounds like a bouncing ball, distinguishes them from other screech-owl species. They often nest in tree cavities, including old woodpecker holes and natural hollows.
Barn Owls are identified by their distinctive heart-shaped facial disk and pale, mottled rusty-brown plumage. These medium-sized owls are common year-round residents across much of Arizona and are known for their silent flight and exceptional hearing, which allows them to hunt in complete darkness. They prefer open habitats such as grasslands and agricultural fields for hunting and typically roost and nest in quiet cavities within barns, abandoned buildings, tree hollows, or cliffs. Their vocalizations include various screams, hisses, and purring sounds.
The Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl is a small, stocky owl, about 6 inches tall, found primarily in southeastern Arizona, especially in the Sonoran Desert. This species often has rusty-colored plumage, a long, barred tail, and two dark spots on the back of its head resembling false eyes. Unlike many owls, they are frequently active during the day, particularly around sunrise and sunset. Their call is a repetitive series of fluty, whistled notes.
Responsible Owl Observation
Observing owls in their natural habitat requires a thoughtful approach to minimize disturbance. Maintain a respectful distance; if an owl frequently looks in your direction or changes its behavior, you are too close. Using binoculars or a spotting scope allows for detailed viewing without encroaching on the owl’s space.
Avoid using flash photography, especially after dark, as it can startle and disorient the birds. Refrain from using audio playback or calls to lure owls, as this can stress them by making them believe a rival or mate is present, disrupting their natural routines. Never feed owls, as this can habituate them to humans and lead to dangerous situations, such as collisions with vehicles. Always respect private property and stay on designated trails to protect both the owls and their habitat.