Owls are nocturnal birds of prey found across the United States, occupying a vast array of ecological niches. Distributed from the nation’s deepest forests to its driest deserts, the diversity of U.S. owl species reflects remarkable adaptability. Each species relies on specific environmental features for hunting, nesting, and raising their young. Understanding their geographic spread requires looking at the major biomes that provide the necessary resources for these specialized predators.
Broad Habitat Types Across the US
The majority of owl species rely on forested landscapes, which provide the vertical structure needed for nesting and roosting. The Eastern Screech-Owl thrives in deciduous and mixed woodlands, often inhabiting wooded rural and suburban settings across the eastern half of the country. In northern and mountainous regions, species such as the Boreal Owl prefer dense coniferous forests.
Other species are adapted to expansive, open habitats. The Short-eared Owl hunts over large tracts of open country, including prairies, marshes, and grasslands, often being active during the day. The Barn Owl is common in deserts, agricultural fields, and grasslands throughout the contiguous United States.
The Great Horned Owl is one of the most widely distributed and adaptable raptors, found in nearly every habitat type in North America. This powerful owl is comfortable in desert scrub, dense forests, wetlands, and urban areas, utilizing any area that provides suitable nesting sites and a steady supply of prey.
Regional Breakdown of Owl Populations
The eastern US, characterized by humid forests and mixed woodlands, is home to the Barred Owl and the Eastern Screech-Owl. The Barred Owl is strongly associated with mature forests, particularly bottomland hardwood forests in the Southeast, using tree hollows for nesting. The Eastern Screech-Owl is widely distributed from the Great Plains eastward, often nesting in fragmented woodlands and backyard boxes.
The Western US and Pacific Northwest feature owls specialized for mountainous or coastal forests. The Northern Spotted Owl is closely tied to the old-growth forests of Washington, Oregon, and northwestern California, relying on the complex structures of ancient trees for shelter and nesting. The adaptable Western Screech-Owl is found across the West Coast, inhabiting deserts, riparian areas, and urban parks.
In the Mountain and Plains States, the Great Horned Owl is the dominant species. It utilizes rocky ledges or takes over abandoned nests of other large birds. Other species, such as the Northern Saw-whet Owl, inhabit the mountain forests year-round, often in the higher elevations of states like Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico.
Specialized Niche Habitats and Extreme Environments
Some owl species have developed highly specific habitat requirements, placing them in unique ecological niches. The Burrowing Owl is distinct, living almost entirely on the ground in open, treeless areas like prairies, deserts, and agricultural fields. These small owls rely on burrows excavated by mammals like prairie dogs or ground squirrels for nesting and shelter.
In the extreme Southwest, the tiny Elf Owl is restricted to areas with large cacti, such as saguaros, which provide cavities for nesting. This smallest North American owl is found primarily in the desert scrub of southern Arizona and New Mexico.
The Barn Owl, while widespread, prefers nesting in man-made structures like barns, silos, and abandoned buildings. This allows it to exist in diverse regions where natural tree cavities may be scarce.
The Snowy Owl is adapted to extreme cold, primarily inhabiting the Arctic tundra. During winter, these owls sometimes experience “irruptions,” migrating south into the northern US, including the Great Lakes region. They favor open landscapes like large fields, dunes, and airport medians that mimic their treeless Arctic home.