In the heartland of America lies a state where the moonlit nights hold a secret world of elusive creatures. Ohio, known for its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, is home to a remarkable array of owl species. With their silent flight, penetrating eyes, and haunting hoots, owls have captivated human imaginations for centuries.
These enigmatic birds of prey have established their presence in the state, thriving in its varied habitats, from dense forests to suburban neighbourhoods.
In this article, we embark on a journey into the nocturnal realm of Ohio’s owls, seeking to uncover the hidden stories behind these magnificent creatures. We delve into the unique adaptations that make them master hunters of the night and explore their breeding and feeding habits.
From the diminutive Eastern Screech-Owls to the majestic Great Horned Owls, we discover the diverse species that grace Ohio’s skies.
1. 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
In the woodlands of Ohio, nestled among old trees and hidden hollows, resides a tiny yet captivating creature known as the Eastern Screech Owl. This charming owl, with its striking plumage, can be found across a wide geographical range spanning much of North America, including Ohio’s own diverse landscapes.
Sporting fluffy feathers in hues of grey, brown, or reddish-brown, these little owls possess an undeniable charm that is amplified by their large and expressive yellow or amber eyes.
Despite their name, not all Eastern Screech Owls screech! Some emit soft, trilling whistles or eerie descending whinnies that float through the night, adding a touch of ethereal enchantment to the darkness.
The Eastern Screech-Owl, a creature of solitude, prefers its own company and comes together with a partner solely for the purpose of breeding during of April. They engage in endearing behaviours that establish an eternal bond.
Once the union is made they seek refuge in the hollows of old tree trunks, hidden within the depths of shadowy forests. Some males have been observed engaging in multiple matings within a single season. This act leads to the eviction of the initial female, making way for the laying of a fresh clutch of eggs.
As a master of adaptation, the Eastern Screech-Owl boasts a varied palate, adjusting its diet to suit its surroundings. In Ohio, it relishes small mammals such as voles, mice, shrews, and rats. It’s also known to consume insects like beetles, moths, and an array of invertebrates, including spiders, worms, and snails.
The owl’s diet even extends to the occasional consumption of small reptiles, birds, and amphibians, sprinkled with the occasional fruity delight of berries and fruits.
While the Eastern Screech-Owl currently holds no endangered status, it faces potential perils from the toxicity of its prey and the relentless destruction or disruption of its cherished habitat.
2. Great Horned Owl
- Scientific name: Bubo virginianus
- Life span: 25 – 50 years
- 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
Behold the majestic ruler of Ohio’s nocturnal realm, the Great Horned Owl, whose wings grace the expansive skies across North America. With a regal presence and an air of wisdom, these magnificent creatures captivate our imaginations.
Adorned with distinctive “horns” that are actually tufts of feathers, their piercing yellow eyes peer into the depths of the night, revealing their formidable nature. Sporting a cloak of mottled browns and greys, they blend effortlessly into their wooded domain, becoming one with the shadows.
The Great Horned Owl displays an early breeding strategy, initiating the selection process as early as January. Courting potential mates with intricate aerial displays and an unusual stomping ritual on chosen nesting sites, the males take the lead in wooing their partners.
These resourceful owls, rather than constructing their own nests, prefer repurposing abandoned havens previously inhabited by larger birds like hawks and eagles. From cliffs and caves to the surprising embrace of cacti, their nesting choices showcase their adaptability.
Renowned for their versatility and opportunistic hunting tactics, Great Horned Owls exhibit a diverse diet that shifts with the seasons and prey availability in Ohio.
While small mammals like voles, mice, and rabbits form their primary sustenance, these formidable hunters are far from selective. Their menu expands to include a plethora of avian, reptilian, amphibian, and insect delicacies, occasionally even indulging in unsuspecting invertebrates.
Equipped with razor-sharp talons and beaks, these nocturnal predators prowl the darkness, pouncing upon their unsuspecting prey.
Despite their lack of threatened status, the Great Horned Owl population in North America has faced a significant decline over the past four decades, largely due to human interference. An unfortunate statistic reveals that human activities account for a staggering 65% of owl fatalities, encompassing distressing causes such as shootings, trapping, vehicular collisions, power line electrocutions, and insidious poisoning from rodenticides.
Tragically, these magnificent creatures have been historically perceived as nuisances, leading to centuries of persecution by farmers and hunters. Regrettably, even today, illegal poachers continue to pose a threat to their survival.
3. 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
In the vast American landscapes, a ghostly presence sweeps across barns and open fields—the American Barn Owl. With its ethereal appearance, this avian beauty haunts the night skies throughout North America. Covered in soft, velvety feathers of delicate tans and creamy whites, it embodies an aura of mystery.
Its heart-shaped face, framed by dark eyes, exudes a mysterious charm. Did you know that the feathers on their wings are specially adapted for silent flight, allowing them to soar silently through the darkness in pursuit of their prey?
These nocturnal birds retreat to the embrace of tree trunks and verdant foliage, reserving their energy for the cloak of night. During the breeding season, spanning from March to June, these majestic owls embark on a journey of lifelong commitment, forging monogamous pair bonds lasting their whole life.
With unwavering determination, the male diligently seeks out the perfect nesting haven, be it a tree cavity or a precipitous cliffside, tirelessly patrolling his newfound territory.
Ohio’s agricultural landscape provides a bountiful banquet for these skilful hunters. Small mammals, such as voles, shrews, and mice, become the centerpiece of their diets, meticulously captured with the aid of their asymmetrical ears, finely attuned to the subtlest of sounds. Yet, these captivating owls also tend to hunt for other small birds and insects.
While the American Barn Owl’s global status remains relatively secure, its North American populations have experienced a ‘decline, primarily attributed to the escalating use of pesticides and rodenticides.
These insidious chemicals, infiltrating their food sources, have dealt a devastating blow to their numbers. However, this resilient species has demonstrated its ability to rebound swiftly, showcasing its unwavering determination in the face of adversity.
4. Barred Owl
- Scientific name: Strix varia
- Life span: 8 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
After conducting an extensive examination of 158 individually banded Barred Owls, an intriguing revelation emerged: these avian inhabitants tend to establish sedentary lifestyles within relatively modest territories, spanning a mere six miles from their initial settlement.
Astonishingly, this seemingly limited expanse does not hinder their widespread presence across the eastern regions of the United States and the southern reaches of Canada. Adorned with a remarkable plumage of brownish-grey hues, their allure is further accentuated by the captivating dark striping adorning their undersides.
In the realm of avian romance, Barred Owls emulate their American Barn Owl counterparts by forging enduring monogamous bonds during the mating season. Starting in February, male owls extend their majestic wings, eagerly anticipating the acceptance of their chosen females. Within the embrace of dense forests, hollow tree trunks serve as the sacred abodes where their nests take shape.
The Barred Owl’s diet leans towards a diverse array of mammals like mice and voles. Yet, they’re also known to include avian, reptilian, and insect prey. Such opportunist hunters, adept at exploiting their acute hearing, stalk their prey near forest rivers and wetlands.
With a global population estimated at three million, Barred Owls assert their presence across the expansive tapestry of North America, earning the esteemed title of “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List. The contamination of their prey and the encroachment of habitat destruction or disturbance are all threats to these birds as well.
5. Snowy Owl
- Scientific name: Bubo scandiacus
- Life span: 9-10 years
- Size: 20-28 inches (52-71 cm)
- Weight: 3.5-6.5 lb (1600-2950 g)
- Wingspan: 4.2-4.8 ft (130-150 cm)
- Status: Vulnerable
In the icy realm of the Arctic, a majestic creature roams the wintry landscapes—the Snowy Owl. With a geographical range that spans the frost-laden tundras of North America, Europe, and Asia, this ethereal bird captivates with its striking appearance.
Clad in pure white plumage, reminiscent of freshly fallen snow, it stands as a symbol of elegance amidst the frigid expanse. Its piercing yellow eyes grant it exceptional visual powers, allowing it to spot prey from great distances.
Snowy Owls defy convention by nesting on the ground, often perched upon minuscule mounds hidden amidst the expansive tundra. While they occasionally repurpose nature’s own depressions, it is not uncommon for them to seek refuge within abandoned nests, previously inhabited by other birds like Arctic Terns and other shorebirds.
These devoted creatures embrace monogamy, returning faithfully to their chosen nesting year after year.
Their diet primarily consists of lemmings; however, their diet also includes other rodents, birds, and even fish. Ever the adaptable hunters, Snowy Owls possess a remarkable ability to seize opportunities, gracefully adjusting their menu to the ever-changing tapestry of their surroundings.
Due to climate change and disruption of their breeding habitats, their status is deemed “Vulnerable” by the IUCN. To compound the sorrow, these resplendent creatures were once hunted for their exquisite feathers, and coveted for their grace and adornment in garments and ornamental creations.
6. 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
In the vast tapestry of grasslands and marshes, the Short-eared Owl lives its life. With a geographical range spanning across the globe, from North America and Europe to Asia and Africa, this charismatic avian roams the skies.
Its plumage, adorned with mottled browns and intricate patterns, seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings, rendering it a master of camouflage. With agile wingbeats and nimble manoeuvres, it takes to the skies in a breathtaking display of prowess, thrilling onlookers with its mesmerizing mid-air dances.
The Short-Eared Owl embarks on a unique journey each breeding season. March marks the beginning of their serial courtships, where they form temporary pairings and gracefully flock together. Breaking away from convention, these owls choose the ground as their nesting haven, seeking refuge amidst low-vegetated realms like prairies, meadows, and tundras.
With a diverse palate, the Short-Eared Owl indulges in an array of different animal types. From voles and shrews to rabbits, weasels, and even hares, they seize opportunities to savour small mammals.
Their appetite extends further, embracing small reptiles, amphibians, insects, and birds like sparrows and larks. Embracing the sunlight, they take to the skies during the day, tirelessly hunting low to the ground in open habitats such as grasslands and meadows.
Yet, the Short-Eared Owl faces hurdles in its everyday life. Habitat destruction and unfortunate encounters with vehicles have contributed to a decline in its population. Nevertheless, these enchanting creatures are expanding their global reach, earning a well-deserved spot on the IUCN Red List as “Least Concern.”
7. 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
Among the inhabitants of Ohio’s dense forests, the Long-eared Owl stands out with its exquisite mastery of camouflage. Its plumage, an artful tapestry of brown and black, mirrors the majestic pine trees, rendering it virtually invisible amidst the verdant foliage. This enigmatic species boasts a global presence and is seen in many northern parts of the world.
In the realm of the Long-Eared Owl, their breeding season begins in March. Male owls take to the skies, showcasing their prowess through captivating songs and mesmerizing wing-flapping displays.
Meanwhile, females embark on a quest for the perfect nesting haven. Standing apart from many of their owl kin, these remarkable creatures do not construct their own nests nest seeking refuge in hawk nests or the hollow recesses of ancient tree trunks.
The Long-Eared Owl in Ohio has a taste for small mammals like mice, voles, shrews, and other rodents. They also eat insects and small birds. When food is scarce, they adapt by occasionally eating amphibians or reptiles. They patiently perch or glide close to the ground while hunting, always on the lookout for something to eat.
Unfortunately, the Long-Eared Owl faces challenges such as habitat destruction and encounters with vehicles, which threaten their population. Despite this, they show resilience by expanding their presence globally.
They are currently listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List. These owls blend perfectly with their surroundings and their haunting calls can be heard up to a mile away, showcasing their enduring presence in nature.
8. Northern Saw-whet Owl
- Scientific name: Aegolius acadicus
- Life span: 7 to 17 years
- Size: 17 to 22 cm (6.7 to 8.7 in)
- Weight: 54 to 151 g (1.9 to 5.3 oz)
- Wingspan: 42 to 56.3 cm (16.5 to 22.2 in)
- Status: Least Concern
In the vast reaches of North America, including the lands of Ohio, dwells the Northern Saw-Whet Owl, a small yet enigmatic creature. Its elusive nature adds to the air of mystery surrounding it.
Adorned with distinct features, it sports a creamy round face adorned with captivating brown streaks, complemented by a pointed dark beak and piercing yellow eyes. The owl’s delicate white underbelly, adorned with intricate brown markings, contrasts with its deep brown upper body, embellished with striking white spots.
Legend has it that the owl’s name hails from its unique call, reminiscent of a saw gracefully caressing a sharpening whetstone. Amidst the tapestry of North American fauna, the Northern Saw-Whet Owl’s ethereal presence captivates the hearts and minds of all who cross its path.
During the breeding season in March, the Northern Saw-Whet Owl practices monogamy, engaging in mating rituals. Although committed, males sometimes mate with multiple females during abundant periods. They find shelter in existing hollows created by woodpeckers or in human-made nest boxes.
In the lush landscapes of Ohio, the Northern Saw-Whet Owl is a skilled predator, focusing on small mammals like voles, mice, and shrews. They also eat insects, birds, and other small creatures found in their hunting grounds. With their sharp talons and beaks, they capture prey that is larger than themselves.
However, the Northern Saw-Whet Owl faces challenges in the wild. Habitat loss and competition for nesting sites from other birds and squirrels threaten their existence. Predation from larger mammals and birds also poses a constant danger.
Despite these obstacles, they are considered of “Least Concern” status on the IUCN Red List. They symbolize adaptability and resilience in the natural world, remaining part of its intricate tapestry.
Where to look for Owls in Ohio
Ohio, with its diverse habitats ranging from expansive forests to serene wetlands, provides an ideal haven for owl enthusiasts eager to spot these enigmatic creatures. To embark on a memorable owl-watching adventure in Ohio, it is crucial to venture into their preferred habitats during the right time and utilize certain techniques to maximize the chances of a successful sighting.
One promising location for owl sightings is the Magee Marsh Wildlife Area in northwest Ohio. Known for its marshes and woodlands, this area attracts several owl species, including the Great Horned Owl and the Barred Owl. Exploring the trails and scanning the treetops at dusk or dawn can yield fruitful results.
Another noteworthy spot is Hocking Hills State Park in southeastern Ohio. With its rugged cliffs, deep gorges, and dense forests, it offers suitable habitats for owls such as the Eastern Screech-Owl and the Northern Saw-Whet Owl. Listening to their distinctive calls in the cover of the night can enhance the chances of an encounter
For those seeking the elusive Barn Owl, the Killbuck Marsh Wildlife Area in central Ohio presents a promising opportunity. The vast wetlands and grasslands within this area provide an excellent habitat for this enchanting species. Exploring the marshes during twilight or early morning may reward you with a glimpse of their ethereal presence.
Lastly, the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, located along Lake Erie’s southern shore, is a prime location for owl enthusiasts. This expansive refuge is home to numerous owl species, including the Short-Eared Owl and the Long-Eared Owl. Venturing into the grasslands and scanning the skies during their active hours can offer an extraordinary owl-watching experience.
To increase the likelihood of owl sightings, it is crucial to maintain a respectful distance and minimize disturbances. Patience is key, as owls are most active during twilight hours. It’s also a good idea to bring binoculars and to familiarize yourself with the different owl calls before you head out.
Conclusion
Ohio stands as a haven for owl enthusiasts, offering a rich tapestry of habitats that accommodate a diverse array of owl species. From the majestic presence of the Great Horned Owl to the stealthy nature of the Barred Owl, these avian wonders captivate the hearts and minds of both birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Exploring the woodlands, wetlands, and meadows of Ohio unveils a world where hoots and calls intertwine, creating an immersive experience that connects us with the intricate beauty of nature.
As we delve into the mysterious realm of owls, we gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of ecosystems and the importance of preserving these precious habitats for future generations to enjoy. Ohio truly embraces its role as a sanctuary for owls, inviting us to embark on a captivating journey of discovery and admiration.
