Barred owls (Strix varia) are among North America’s most recognizable owls, known for their large, dark eyes and distinctive brown-and-white striped plumage. These owls inhabit mature forests, particularly those near water sources like wooded swamps and riverbanks. Their presence is often revealed by their characteristic eight-note call, commonly interpreted as “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you-all?”. These nocturnal birds are a common sight and sound across much of the eastern United States and have expanded their range into the Pacific Northwest.
Mating Season Timing
Barred owls typically begin their mating season in late winter and early spring, though the exact timing can vary regionally. Courtship activities often commence in February, with breeding extending from March into August in many areas.
In southern regions like Florida, breeding can begin as early as December, while in northern areas such as Michigan, the peak mating period spans February to April. These regional differences are influenced by environmental cues, including increasing daylight hours and food availability, which signal favorable conditions for raising young.
Males become notably more vocal during this period, using a variety of calls to attract females, establish territories, and signal the start of the mating season. While barred owls call year-round, their specific courtship vocalizations intensify in the late winter months.
Courtship Behaviors
Barred owls are largely monogamous, with pairs often mating for life and frequently using the same nesting territories each year. Their courtship period involves a series of complex interactions designed to strengthen pair bonds.
Vocalizations play a significant part, with mated pairs engaging in riotous duets that include hoots, cackles, gurgles, and even screams. Beyond vocal displays, barred owls exhibit various physical courtship behaviors.
Males may sway back and forth, raise their wings, and sidle along a branch in close proximity to the female. Other observed displays include head bobbing and mutual preening, where one bird grooms the feathers of its partner, fostering a deeper connection.
A practical and important aspect of courtship involves the male providing food to the female. This offering demonstrates his ability to provision for her during incubation and for their future offspring. This courtship feeding signals the male’s commitment and hunting prowess.
Nesting and Reproduction
Following successful courtship and mating, barred owls select a nesting site, typically preferring natural tree cavities. These cavities are usually located 20 to 40 feet high in large, mature trees. They may also utilize abandoned stick nests built by other large birds such as hawks, crows, or even squirrels, and will readily use human-made nest boxes.
The female typically lays a clutch of two to three pure white, rough-surfaced eggs, though clutches can range from one to five eggs. Eggs are generally laid a few days apart. The female is primarily responsible for incubating the eggs, a period that lasts approximately 28 to 33 days.
During the incubation period, the male assumes the role of provider, hunting and bringing food to the female at the nest. After the chicks hatch, both parents participate in feeding the young. The owlets remain in the nest for several weeks. Even after fledging, they continue to rely on their parents for food and care, often through the summer and into the fall.