Southern California is a region of immense ecological variety, with habitats ranging from coastal chaparral to high-desert mountains. These birds of prey are primarily nocturnal hunters, playing a significant role in managing local rodent and insect populations across diverse environments. Their specialized adaptations, like silent flight and exceptional night vision, allow them to navigate and thrive in the complex landscapes of the region. Learning to recognize these avian residents involves distinguishing between the large, widely distributed species and the smaller owls that occupy distinct ecological niches.
Large and Common Owl Species
The Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) is known for its considerable size and prominent feather tufts that resemble horns. These powerful raptors exhibit mottled brown and gray plumage, enabling them to camouflage effectively against tree bark during daylight hours. With a diet that includes rabbits, rodents, and even skunks, the Great Horned Owl is an apex predator that adapts well to various habitats, from remote canyons to suburban parks.
The Barn Owl (Tyto alba) is distinguished by its pale, ghost-like appearance and a stark, heart-shaped facial disc. Unlike the deep hoot of its larger relative, the Barn Owl is known for its chilling, raspy screech. This species is an efficient hunter, relying on its asymmetrical ears to pinpoint the location of rodents in complete darkness.
The Long-eared Owl (Asio otus) is a slender, medium-sized owl identified by its long, closely set ear tufts. These owls are highly camouflaged with finely patterned brown and black plumage. They primarily hunt small mammals, such as voles, gliding silently over open grasslands at night.
Smaller and Niche Owl Species
The Western Screech-Owl (Megascops kennicottii) is a small, stocky owl found in wooded areas and residential neighborhoods. They possess small ear tufts and bright yellow eyes, and they primarily nest in tree cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes. Their diet consists of insects, small mammals, and occasionally crayfish, which they hunt in riparian and open woodland habitats.
The Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) is primarily active during the day, though it also hunts at dawn and dusk. This owl is easily identified by its long, bare legs and short tail, and it lives underground in burrows excavated by ground squirrels. Found in open grasslands and scrublands, this species is a California Species of Special Concern due to habitat loss across the state.
The Northern Pygmy-Owl (Glaucidium gnoma) is a tiny, diurnal hunter found in coniferous and mixed forests at higher elevations. This small owl lacks ear tufts and has a rounded head, often featuring two dark spots on the back of its neck that mimic eyes to deter predators. Pygmy-Owls are known for preying on small songbirds and large insects, sometimes taking prey larger than themselves.
Practical Guide to Owl Spotting
Habitat
Locating owls begins by knowing which environments they prefer. Great Horned Owls are highly adaptable and can be found in mountain forests, deserts, and even densely populated urban parks where large trees are present. Barn Owls favor open areas, such as agricultural fields, marshes, and the edges of canyons.
Smaller species like the Western Screech-Owl frequent mature woodlands and suburban areas with older trees that offer suitable nesting cavities. The Burrowing Owl requires flat, open grassland areas with low vegetation and existing mammal burrows. Searching near riparian corridors, which provide dense cover and water, can also increase the chances of spotting Long-eared Owls or Pygmy-Owls.
Vocalization
Listening for specific calls is often the most effective method for detecting owls, as their camouflage makes them difficult to see. The classic, deep-toned “hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo” is the territorial call of the Great Horned Owl, frequently heard echoing across neighborhoods at night. Barn Owls rarely hoot, instead emitting a distinctive, drawn-out, hissing screech that can sound unsettling when heard unexpectedly.
The Western Screech-Owl produces a series of accelerating, whistled notes often described as a “bouncing ball” sound. Burrowing Owls are less vocal, but they will sometimes make a high-pitched “coo-cooo” call near their burrows.
Guidelines for Coexisting with Owls
All owl species in Southern California are protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Observers should maintain a respectful distance from the birds to prevent disturbance. Minimizing light pollution and loud noises in areas where owls are known to hunt helps them maintain their natural behaviors.
If an injured owl is discovered, contact a local, licensed wildlife rehabilitation center. Using poison baits for rodent control should be avoided, as owls are susceptible to secondary poisoning from consuming contaminated prey. Maintaining natural tree cavities and avoiding the unnecessary removal of dead trees or snags provides vital nesting sites for many of the region’s owl populations.