Owls in Iowa present a captivating glimpse into the state’s rich natural heritage. These enigmatic birds, with their haunting calls and silent flight, are a vital part of Iowa’s ecosystem. From the ghostly Barn Owl to the formidable Great Horned Owl, each species brings its own unique charm and ecological role. The diversity of habitats in Iowa, from open grasslands to dense forests, provides a haven for these nocturnal predators.
Observing these majestic creatures can be both thrilling and educational, offering insights into their behaviors, adaptations, and the environmental challenges they face. Whether you are a seasoned birdwatcher or a curious nature enthusiast, the owls of Iowa invite you to explore their mysterious world, where every hoot and shadow tells a story of survival and beauty.
1. American Barn Owl
- Scientific name: Tyto furcata
- Life span: 10 years
- Size: 34 to 38 cm (13 to 15 in)
- Weight: 400 to 600 g (0.88 to 1.3 lbs)
- Wingspan: 80 to 95 cm (31 to 37 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
The Barn Owl, known for its ghostly appearance and eerie screech, inhabits open countryside, farms, and grasslands across much of the world. In North America, they are found from southern Canada through the United States and into Central America.
Their heart-shaped face, pure white underparts, and mottled golden-brown and gray upperparts make them easily identifiable. The contrast between their dark eyes and pale face adds to their spectral presence, especially when they are seen gliding silently over fields at dusk or dawn.
Barn Owls prefer nesting in quiet, secluded locations, often choosing abandoned buildings, tree cavities, and old barns. Their nests are simple, composed of regurgitated pellets that create a soft, warm bed for their eggs. Typically, Barn Owls lay four to seven eggs, which are incubated by the female while the male hunts. The hatchlings are born at intervals, resulting in a range of ages and sizes among the chicks.
Barn Owls are master hunters, primarily feeding on small mammals such as mice, voles, and shrews. They rely heavily on their exceptional hearing to locate prey, often in complete darkness. The heart-shaped face of the Barn Owl functions like a satellite dish, channeling sound to their highly sensitive ears. Once prey is detected, they swoop down silently thanks to their specialized feathers that muffle sound.
The conservation history of Barn Owls is a testament to human dedication to wildlife preservation. Once threatened by habitat loss and pesticide use, their numbers have stabilized due to concerted efforts to protect their environments. Nest box programs have been particularly successful, providing safe nesting sites in areas where natural cavities are scarce.
2. Northern Hawk-Owl
- Scientific name: Surnia ulula
- Life span: 8-10 years
- Size: 14-16 inches (35-40 cm)
- Weight: 8-14 oz (225-400 g)
- Wingspan: 28-35 inches (70-90 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
The Northern Hawk Owl is a rare sight in Iowa, typically seen only during irruptive years when they migrate south from their usual boreal forest habitats in Canada and Alaska. This owl is distinctive for its long tail and hawk-like flight patterns.
Its plumage is a striking combination of brown and white, with a heavily streaked breast and a facial disc framed by a bold, dark border. The Northern Hawk Owl’s piercing yellow eyes and direct stare can be quite mesmerizing for those lucky enough to spot it.
Northern Hawk Owls prefer nesting in the remote and expansive boreal forests of North America, often choosing abandoned woodpecker holes or natural cavities high up in dead trees. They do not build elaborate nests but rather adapt existing structures to suit their needs. The female lays three to eleven eggs, and incubation duties are shared with the male, who also provides most of the food.
Northern Hawk Owls are diurnal hunters, relying on their keen eyesight to spot prey from perches high in the trees. Their diet primarily consists of small mammals, such as voles and mice, but they also hunt birds, particularly in the winter months when mammalian prey is scarce. These owls are known for their persistence and agility, often hovering like a hawk before diving to catch their prey.
The conservation status of Northern Hawk Owls is generally stable, though their populations are naturally sparse and spread across vast, remote areas. Conservation efforts have focused on preserving their boreal forest habitats, which are increasingly threatened by logging and climate change. Maintaining healthy forest ecosystems is crucial for the survival of Northern Hawk Owls and many other species that share their habitat.
3. Long-eared Owl
- Scientific name: Asio otus
- Life span: 10 to 27 years
- Size: 31 to 40 cm (12 to 16 in)
- Weight: 160 to 435 g (5.6 to 15.3 oz)
- Wingspan: 86 to 102 cm (2ft 10in to 3ft 4in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
The Long-eared Owl is a medium-sized owl with strikingly long ear tufts that it often holds upright. It is found in wooded areas and dense shrublands across North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. In Iowa, they are typically seen during the winter months. Their plumage is mottled brown and gray, providing superb camouflage against the foliage.
Their bright orange eyes stand out against their darker facial discs, giving them an intense, almost hypnotic gaze. These owls are known for their elusive nature and preference for roosting in dense cover.
Long-eared Owls prefer nesting in dense forests or thickets, often near open areas where they can hunt. They usually take over abandoned nests of other birds, such as crows or hawks, rather than building their own. The female lays three to eight eggs and incubates them while the male provides food. These owls are highly secretive during the breeding season, often roosting in dense foliage to remain hidden.
The diet of Long-eared Owls primarily consists of small mammals, particularly voles and mice. They hunt mainly at night, using their excellent hearing and vision to locate prey. Their hunting technique involves flying low over open areas and pouncing on unsuspecting prey. They are also known to perch and scan the ground for movement before making their move. This diet is crucial for maintaining their energy levels and supporting their active nocturnal lifestyle.
Long-eared Owls face several conservation challenges, including habitat loss and fragmentation. Conservation efforts focus on preserving and restoring suitable habitats, such as mixed forests and open grasslands. Monitoring programs track population trends and breeding success, providing valuable data for conservation planning. Public education campaigns raise awareness about the importance of these owls and the threats they face.
4. Barred Owl
- Scientific name: Strix varia
- Life span: Up to 10 years
- Size: 40 to 63 cm (15 to 25 in)
- Weight: 610 to 1,150 g (1.34 to 2.54 lb)
- Wingspan: 96 to 125 cm (38 to 49 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Barred Owls are well-known for their distinctive call that sounds like “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all?” These owls are commonly found in large forests, particularly near water, throughout the eastern United States and parts of Canada. They have a rounded head without ear tufts and dark eyes that give them a gentle, soulful expression.
Their plumage is a mix of brown and white, with horizontal bars on the chest and vertical streaks on the belly, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
They typically nest in tree cavities but will also use abandoned nests of other large birds. The female lays two to four eggs and incubates them while the male provides food. Barred Owls are highly territorial and will defend their nesting area vigorously. Their nests are often located high in large trees, providing safety from many ground predators. The proximity to water bodies also ensures a steady supply of prey, supporting the growth and development of their chicks.
Barred Owls have a diverse diet that includes small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. They are nocturnal hunters, using their excellent night vision and acute hearing to locate prey. Their hunting technique involves perching silently and swooping down on prey, which they catch with their powerful talons. They are also known to hunt during the day, especially in overcast or dimly lit conditions.
The conservation status of Barred Owls is generally stable, thanks to their adaptability and wide range. However, habitat loss and fragmentation pose ongoing threats. Conservation efforts focus on preserving large tracts of mature forest and maintaining healthy riparian zones.
5. Short-eared Owl
- Scientific name: Asio flammeus
- Life span: 12 years
- Size: 34 to 43 cm (13 to 17 in)
- Weight: 206 to 475 g (7.3 to 16.8 oz)
- Wingspan: 85 to 110 cm (33 to 43 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
Short-eared Owls are nomadic birds that can be found in open landscapes such as grasslands, marshes, and agricultural fields across North America. Unlike most owls, they are often active during the day, especially around dawn and dusk.
They have a rounded head with barely visible ear tufts and striking yellow eyes encircled by dark patches, giving them a somewhat stern appearance. Their plumage is a mix of buff and brown, with streaks and spots that provide excellent camouflage against the grasses and reeds where they hunt.
Short-eared Owls are ground nesters, often choosing open areas such as grasslands, marshes, and tundra for their nesting sites. The female creates a simple nest by scraping a shallow depression in the ground and lining it with grass and feathers. She lays three to eleven eggs, which are incubated for about a month.
These owls are highly nomadic, often moving to new areas in response to changes in prey availability. Their ground nests are well-camouflaged, providing protection from predators and harsh weather conditions.
Short-eared Owls primarily feed on small mammals, especially voles, but they also hunt birds and insects. They are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during the early morning and late evening. Their hunting technique involves flying low over open fields, using their keen eyesight and hearing to detect prey. Once spotted, they dive quickly to capture their meal with their sharp talons. This diet is crucial for their survival, providing the necessary energy to sustain their active lifestyle.
The conservation status of Short-eared Owls is of concern due to habitat loss and degradation. Conservation efforts focus on preserving and restoring grasslands, wetlands, and other open habitats that are crucial for their survival. Monitoring programs track population trends and migration patterns, providing data to inform conservation strategies. Public education campaigns raise awareness about the importance of these habitats and the threats faced by Short-eared Owls.
6. Eastern Screech-Owl
- Scientific name: Megascops asio
- Life span: 8 to 10 years
- Size: 16 to 25 cm (6.5 to 10 in)
- Weight: 121 to 244 g (4.25 to 8.5 oz)
- Wingspan: 46 to 61 cm (18 to 24 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The Eastern Screech-Owl is a small, stocky owl found throughout the eastern United States. This versatile bird thrives in a variety of habitats, including forests, suburban areas, and parks. It boasts a remarkable ability to blend into its surroundings, with plumage that can be either gray or reddish-brown, both featuring intricate patterns that resemble tree bark.
Their large, round eyes and ear tufts give them a somewhat expressive appearance, often making them look more alert and curious than other owl species.
Eastern Screech-Owls are cavity nesters, often utilizing natural tree hollows, abandoned woodpecker holes, and even human-made nest boxes. The female lays three to five eggs and incubates them while the male provides food. These small but fierce owls show remarkable adaptability in their nesting choices, sometimes settling in urban areas if suitable nesting sites are available.
The diet of the Eastern Screech-Owl is diverse and opportunistic. They hunt a wide range of prey, including insects, small mammals, birds, and even amphibians. Their hunting strategy involves perching silently and swooping down on unsuspecting prey, which they catch with their sharp talons. They are particularly active at night, using their excellent night vision and acute hearing to locate food.
Eastern Screech-Owls have benefited from conservation efforts that focus on habitat preservation and the installation of nest boxes. Urbanization and deforestation pose significant threats to their natural habitats, but community-led initiatives and wildlife organizations have worked to mitigate these impacts.
Educational programs have increased public awareness about the importance of these owls, encouraging the preservation of old trees and the installation of nest boxes in both rural and urban settings.
7. Burrowing Owl
- Scientific name: Athene cunicularia
- Life span: 6-8 years
- Size: 8-11 inches (20-28 cm)
- Weight: 4.9-8.5 oz (140-240 g)
- Wingspan: 20-24 inches (51-61 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
Burrowing Owls are unique among owls for their preference for open, dry areas such as grasslands, deserts, and agricultural fields, primarily in the western United States and parts of Iowa. Unlike most owls, they nest and roost in burrows, often taking over abandoned prairie dog or ground squirrel tunnels.
These small, long-legged owls have a sandy, brownish plumage with white spots and striking yellow eyes that stand out against their pale facial disks.
Burrowing Owls have a unique nesting behavior that sets them apart from other owls. They nest in underground burrows, often taking over abandoned prairie dog or ground squirrel tunnels. These owls are highly social and may nest in loose colonies. The female lays six to eleven eggs, and both parents take turns incubating and caring for the young. The burrows provide a safe and stable environment, protecting the eggs and chicks from extreme weather and predators.
Burrowing Owls have a varied diet that includes insects, small mammals, birds, and reptiles. They are active during the day and night, often seen hunting insects in the early morning and late afternoon. Their hunting technique involves sprinting across the ground or perching and swooping down on prey. This versatility in diet and hunting methods allows them to exploit a wide range of food sources, which is essential for their survival in the diverse environments they inhabit.
Conservation efforts for Burrowing Owls have been extensive due to their declining populations, primarily caused by habitat loss and pesticide use. Many conservation programs focus on habitat restoration, including the creation of artificial burrows and the protection of prairie dog colonies.
Public education campaigns aim to increase awareness of the owls’ plight and promote coexistence with these charismatic birds. These initiatives have seen some success, with stable or increasing populations in areas where conservation measures are actively implemented.
8. Great Horned Owl
- Scientific name: Bubo virginianus
- Life span: Around 15 years in the wild
- Size: 43 to 64 cm (17 to 25 in)
- Weight: 1200 to 1600 g (2.64 to 3.52 lbs)
- Wingspan: 91 to 153 cm (3ft 0in to 5ft 0in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The Great Horned Owl is one of the most widespread and powerful owls in the Americas, inhabiting a variety of environments from dense forests to open deserts. Known for its prominent ear tufts, or “horns,” this owl has a fierce and majestic appearance. Its plumage is a mottled mix of gray, brown, and white, which provides excellent camouflage in various settings.
The bright yellow eyes and white throat patch of the Great Horned Owl are distinctive features, often highlighted by the owl’s habit of staring directly at observers, creating an impression of profound intensity.
Great Horned Owls are highly adaptable in their nesting behavior, often choosing sites such as tree cavities, abandoned nests of other large birds, cliffs, and even man-made structures. The female lays one to four eggs, and both parents take turns incubating them. These owls are known for their fierce territoriality, defending their nests vigorously against intruders.
Great Horned Owls have a diverse diet, making them one of the most formidable predators in their range. They hunt a wide variety of prey, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and even other raptors. Their hunting strategy involves perching silently and swooping down on prey with incredible speed and precision.
Great Horned Owls have generally stable populations, but they still face threats such as habitat loss, poisoning, and human disturbance. Conservation efforts focus on preserving their habitats and reducing human impacts. Monitoring programs and research initiatives provide valuable data on their ecology and behavior, helping to inform conservation strategies. Public education campaigns raise awareness about the importance of these owls and the challenges they face.
Where to look for Owls in Iowa
Finding owls in Iowa can be a thrilling adventure, perfect for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. To increase your chances, venture out at dusk or dawn when owls are most active. Listen for their distinctive calls and look for movement in the trees or open fields. Use a flashlight with a red filter to avoid startling them, and bring binoculars for a closer view.
Here are some great areas to explore:
- Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge: Located in Prairie City, this refuge offers a mix of grasslands and woodlands, making it an ideal spot to find Short-eared Owls and Northern Saw-whet Owls. The refuge’s open spaces and rich biodiversity provide excellent habitats for these nocturnal hunters.
- Yellow River State Forest: In northeastern Iowa, this forest is a haven for Barred Owls and Eastern Screech-Owls. The dense woods and serene environment create a perfect backdrop for owl spotting, especially along the hiking trails and riverbanks.
- Ledges State Park: Situated near Boone, this park’s varied terrain includes forests and bluffs, attracting Great Horned Owls and Long-eared Owls. The park’s scenic overlooks and quiet pathways are excellent for night walks and owl listening sessions.
By exploring these areas and following these tips, you’ll enhance your chances of experiencing the magical presence of owls in Iowa’s beautiful landscapes.
Conclusion
Owls in Iowa, with their diverse species and fascinating behaviors, highlight the richness of the state’s natural habitats. Protecting these majestic birds and their environments ensures ecological balance and enriches our connection to wildlife. Continued conservation efforts are vital for preserving Iowa’s owl populations for future generations.
