South Dakota is home to some of the most fascinating and mysterious birds—the owls. These silent hunters thrive in the state’s diverse landscapes, from the open prairies to the dense forests of the Black Hills. Whether you’re walking through the woods at dusk or driving across the plains at night, you might catch a glimpse of one of these incredible creatures.
With their large eyes and almost ghostly presence, owls are built for life in the shadows. They can spot even the slightest movement in the dark and swoop down with precision, making them expert predators. South Dakota is home to a variety of owl species, each with its own unique call, size, and habits.
From the small Northern Saw-whet Owl to the striking Snowy Owl, these birds add a touch of wild wonder to the state’s ecosystems, offering nature lovers plenty to marvel at. Many of North America’s owls chose to breed in South Dakota, making it a particularly interesting place to look for these wonderful creatures, as you might be lucky to find their nests.
1. 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
- State status: Breeding and common
The Great Horned Owl is one of North America’s most widespread owls, found throughout South Dakota year-round. It’s easily recognized by its large size, piercing yellow eyes, and the distinctive feather tufts resembling “horns” on its head.
Its plumage varies from mottled gray to brown, blending seamlessly into forested areas, open fields, and even urban landscapes. Adaptable and resilient, this owl can thrive in various habitats across North and South America, from dense forests to deserts.
The Great Horned Owl is known for its adaptability when it comes to nesting. Rather than building their own nests, these owls take over abandoned nests of other large birds, such as hawks, crows, or even squirrels. In South Dakota, they often nest in tall trees, cliffs, or even in urban areas on buildings or towers.
The female typically lays 2-3 eggs, incubating them for about a month. The male brings food to the nest, where the young stay for several weeks after hatching. This early nesting in late winter allows the owls to get a head start on the season, preparing their young for survival before food resources become scarce.
The Great Horned Owl has a broad and diverse diet, making it one of the most adaptable predators in South Dakota. These owls primarily hunt at night, relying on their exceptional hearing and silent flight to ambush prey. They feed on small mammals such as rabbits, squirrels, and rodents, but they’re also known to take larger prey like skunks and birds, including other owls.
They’re opportunistic hunters and will also consume reptiles, amphibians, and insects. This flexibility in diet allows them to thrive in a variety of habitats, from forests to grasslands, and even urban areas.
Great Horned Owls are not currently considered threatened in South Dakota. In fact, they are widespread and commonly seen across the state. Historically, they have been admired for their adaptability and resilience, but at times they have been seen as a threat to game species or livestock, leading to conflicts with humans.
However, conservation efforts have focused on educating the public about the owl’s role in controlling rodent populations, thus promoting coexistence. Since they adapt well to human-altered environments, their population remains stable. Habitat preservation, particularly of woodlands and open spaces, continues to benefit these majestic birds.
2. 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 is known for its pale, heart-shaped face and ghostly white underparts, contrasting with its golden-brown and gray wings and back. Found in open areas like fields and grasslands, this owl can also inhabit farmlands and rural areas of South Dakota.
It roosts in barns and other abandoned structures, making use of its excellent hunting abilities at night. Though more uncommon in the state, its striking appearance and eerie screech make it stand out wherever it’s found.
Barn Owls are cavity nesters, preferring open structures like barns, abandoned buildings, or hollow trees. In South Dakota, they are often found nesting in rural areas, where old farm buildings provide ideal nesting sites.
The female lays 4-7 eggs, and both parents are involved in feeding the young. Barn Owls may also use nest boxes if provided, which has become an important conservation tool. Their nests are usually simple, lined with pellets that the parents regurgitate after feeding, creating a soft bed for their young.
Barn Owls are specialized hunters of small mammals, particularly rodents like mice and voles. In South Dakota, they hunt primarily at night, using their excellent hearing and silent flight to locate prey in open fields and farmlands. Barn Owls often hunt by flying low over fields, listening for the rustling of small animals below.
Their role as natural pest controllers in agricultural areas makes them valuable to farmers. In addition to rodents, they may also consume small birds and insects, though these are less common in their diet.
Barn Owls are considered uncommon in South Dakota, largely due to habitat loss and the decline of suitable nesting sites. The conversion of old barns and farmlands into modern structures has reduced their available nesting areas. Conservation efforts have focused on providing nest boxes and protecting open habitats where Barn Owls hunt.
Public awareness campaigns have also helped highlight their importance in controlling rodent populations, leading to increased support for their conservation. Despite these challenges, targeted efforts have helped stabilize Barn Owl populations in some areas of the state.
3. 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
The Short-eared Owl is a migratory species found in open grasslands and prairies across South Dakota during certain seasons. Unlike most owls, it’s often active during the day, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Its rounded face, small ear tufts (often not visible), and streaked brown and white plumage give it a distinctive look. This owl’s graceful, low-flying hunting style over open fields makes it a sight to behold, though it’s considered uncommon in the region.
Short-eared Owls are ground nesters, choosing open grasslands or prairies for their breeding grounds. They nest on the ground in shallow depressions lined with grass and down feathers. The female typically lays 4-7 eggs, incubating them while the male provides food. Because they nest on the ground, their nests are vulnerable to predation and habitat disturbance.
However, their cryptic coloration helps camouflage the nest, making it difficult for predators to find. They are more commonly seen during their breeding season when they perform elaborate flight displays to attract mates.
Short-eared Owls have a diet heavily focused on small mammals, particularly voles and mice. They are often seen hunting in the early morning or late afternoon, making them more diurnal than many other owl species. In South Dakota’s open prairies, they use their excellent vision and hearing to locate prey, flying low over fields before diving in to capture it.
In addition to rodents, they may also feed on small birds and insects. Their preference for hunting in open areas makes them a valuable part of the prairie ecosystem, controlling rodent populations.
Short-eared Owls have faced population declines in South Dakota due to habitat loss, primarily the conversion of grasslands to agriculture. They rely on open, undisturbed grasslands for nesting and hunting, making them particularly vulnerable to land use changes, and are therefore not breeding in the state anymore.
Conservation efforts focus on protecting and restoring grassland habitats to support breeding populations. Public awareness campaigns have highlighted the importance of preserving these areas, and programs aimed at maintaining wildlife-friendly agricultural practices have also been beneficial. Despite these efforts, Short-eared Owls remain a species of concern in the state due to ongoing habitat challenges.
4. 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: Breeding and uncommon
Long-eared Owls are medium-sized owls with prominent ear tufts and orange facial disks that contrast with their otherwise mottled brown and white bodies. Found across North America, including South Dakota, they prefer wooded areas near open fields.
Their excellent camouflage and tendency to roost in dense foliage make them difficult to spot. While they migrate seasonally, these owls breed in parts of the state and can be heard with their soft hoots during the night.
Long-eared Owls prefer to nest in dense forests or thickets, often near open areas where they can hunt. They do not build their own nests but instead reuse old nests of other birds, such as crows, hawks, or magpies. In South Dakota, they tend to choose secluded areas with dense cover for nesting.
The female lays 4-5 eggs and incubates them while the male provides food. Their nests are often hard to find, as these owls are very secretive and blend well into their surroundings, especially during the breeding season.
The diet of the Long-eared Owl is composed mainly of small mammals, particularly rodents like voles and mice, which they hunt in open areas at night. These owls are highly efficient hunters, using their excellent hearing and stealthy flight to catch prey. In South Dakota, they may also feed on small birds, reptiles, and insects when rodents are less available.
Long-eared Owls often hunt from a low perch, silently swooping down on their prey with precision. Their reliance on small mammals makes them crucial for rodent population control in their habitats.
Long-eared Owls are considered uncommon in South Dakota, with their population being somewhat stable but facing threats from habitat loss. They depend on a mix of dense woodlands for nesting and open fields for hunting, making them vulnerable to changes in land use, such as deforestation and agricultural expansion.
Conservation efforts focus on protecting forested areas and ensuring suitable habitats are maintained. Public education and the creation of nature reserves have helped raise awareness of the importance of preserving the diverse habitats these owls need. While not currently endangered, their future relies on continued conservation efforts.
5. 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 with a distinctive ear-tufted silhouette, primarily found in the eastern and central parts of the United States, including South Dakota. Its plumage can vary between gray or reddish-brown, both offering excellent camouflage against tree bark.
Though small, its presence is notable through its trilling and whinnying calls heard in forests, suburban areas, and woodlands. This owl’s adaptability allows it to thrive in diverse environments, making it a fairly common resident.
Eastern Screech-Owls nest in tree cavities, which they do not create themselves but find naturally occurring or left behind by woodpeckers. In South Dakota, they are commonly found nesting in wooded areas, both rural and urban. They’re also known to readily use nest boxes provided by humans, which has helped their nesting success in areas with fewer natural cavities.
The female lays 3-5 eggs and incubates them for about 26 days while the male provides food. Screech-owls tend to be highly territorial during the breeding season, often returning to the same nest site year after year.
Eastern Screech-Owls have a varied diet, making them highly adaptable hunters in South Dakota. They primarily hunt at night, using their acute hearing and excellent vision to catch small mammals like mice, voles, and shrews. In addition to mammals, they consume a wide range of insects, particularly during warmer months.
They are also known to eat small birds, reptiles, and amphibians. These owls are opportunistic feeders, taking whatever prey is most readily available. Their ability to feed on such a diverse array of animals helps them thrive in both forested and suburban environments.
Eastern Screech-Owls are generally stable in population across South Dakota, but habitat loss is a potential threat to their long-term survival. The loss of mature trees with cavities can reduce available nesting sites. To combat this, many conservation efforts focus on maintaining wooded habitats and providing nest boxes to encourage breeding in areas where natural cavities are scarce.
Public awareness campaigns have helped inform people about the importance of preserving old trees for wildlife, which has positively impacted screech-owl populations. Overall, they remain common and widespread, thanks to their adaptability to various environments.
6. Barred Owl
- Scientific name: Strix varia
- Life span: 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 uncommon
The Barred Owl, recognizable by its rounded head without ear tufts and dark brown eyes, is native to forests in the eastern United States, including parts of South Dakota. Its gray-brown plumage features horizontal bars across the chest and vertical streaks down its belly, giving the bird its name.
Preferring dense, mature forests, this owl is more often heard than seen, with its distinctive “Who cooks for you?” call echoing through woodland habitats at night.
Barred Owls prefer to nest in large tree cavities, often in mature forests. In South Dakota, they are found in forested areas, particularly those near water. If natural cavities are scarce, they may also use old hawk or squirrel nests. The female typically lays 2-4 eggs, and both parents care for the young, though the female handles most of the incubation.
Barred Owls are territorial during the nesting season, often returning to the same nesting sites year after year. Their nests are well-hidden, making them difficult to observe.
Barred Owls have a varied diet, consisting primarily of small mammals, but they are also known to eat birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. In South Dakota, they hunt in forested areas, often perching silently before swooping down on their prey.
They are especially fond of hunting near water, where they can catch fish and amphibians. Their opportunistic feeding habits allow them to thrive in various habitats, and they are often more active during twilight hours, although they will hunt during the day if food is scarce.
Barred Owls have generally stable populations in South Dakota, though habitat loss due to logging and land development poses some threat. Conservation efforts are focused on preserving mature forests, particularly those with large trees suitable for nesting.
The expansion of Barred Owls into new areas has also raised concerns about competition with other owl species, such as the Northern Spotted Owl, though this is not a significant issue in South Dakota. Public education and habitat protection have helped ensure that Barred Owls remain a common sight in the state’s forests.
7. 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
- State status: Migratory and rare
The Snowy Owl, known for its striking white plumage, is a winter visitor to South Dakota’s prairies and open fields. Native to the Arctic tundra, this large owl often migrates south in search of food during the winter months. Its bright yellow eyes and heavily feathered body help it endure harsh cold.
While younger owls have darker markings, adult males are often nearly pure white, making this owl one of the most recognizable and sought-after species during the winter.
Snowy Owls breed in the Arctic tundra, where they build shallow nests on the ground. Although they don’t nest in South Dakota, they migrate to the state during the winter months, often appearing in open fields and prairies.
Their nests in the Arctic consist of a simple scrape in the ground, lined with grass and feathers, where the female lays 3-11 eggs. Snowy Owls are highly territorial during the breeding season, aggressively defending their nests from potential threats, including other large birds and predators.
In South Dakota, Snowy Owls primarily hunt small mammals like mice and voles during their winter stay. These owls are powerful hunters, often perching on fence posts or the ground to scan for prey. Their diet also includes birds, and in their Arctic breeding grounds, they feed heavily on lemmings. In the open prairies and agricultural fields of South Dakota, their sharp vision and strong talons allow them to effectively capture prey, even in harsh winter conditions.
Snowy Owls are generally considered a species of least concern globally, but their presence in South Dakota during the winter is closely monitored. These owls migrate to the state in varying numbers, depending on the availability of food in their Arctic breeding grounds. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection in both their breeding and wintering areas.
In South Dakota, monitoring programs track their movements to understand migration patterns better. Public interest in Snowy Owls has grown, and birdwatching groups often report sightings, helping to raise awareness about their conservation needs.
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
- State status: Breeding and uncommon
The Northern Saw-whet Owl, a small and elusive bird, is found throughout forests in South Dakota, particularly in the Black Hills. Its round face, strikingly large yellow eyes, and a lack of ear tufts give it a distinctive appearance.
The owl’s reddish-brown plumage, marked with white spots on the head and wings, helps it blend into its forested habitat. Known for its nocturnal habits and high-pitched call, this owl remains elusive but not overly rare in the state.
The Northern Saw-whet Owl typically nests in coniferous or mixed forests, often in old woodpecker holes or natural tree cavities. They don’t build nests themselves, preferring to take over existing ones. In South Dakota, they can be found in forested regions, particularly in the Black Hills.
The female lays 4-7 eggs and is responsible for incubating them while the male provides food. After about a month, the eggs hatch, and the young remain in the nest for several weeks before fledging. Their nesting behavior is secretive, making them difficult to spot during the breeding season.
Northern Saw-whet Owls are primarily nocturnal hunters, relying on their sharp hearing and sight to catch small mammals. Their diet mainly consists of mice and voles, which they hunt in forested areas of South Dakota. These owls are known to hunt by waiting on a perch and then swooping down on their prey.
Occasionally, they may also eat small birds, insects, and even some amphibians. Despite their small size, they are efficient predators, known for caching extra prey during periods of abundance to consume later.
While Northern Saw-whet Owls are not considered endangered, they are less commonly seen in South Dakota compared to other owl species. Their secretive nature and preference for dense forests make them harder to monitor. Conservation efforts focus on preserving forested habitats, particularly those with suitable nesting cavities.
Researchers have also used banding programs to track their migration patterns and population trends. The Northern Saw-whet Owl’s population seems stable, though it remains vulnerable to habitat loss due to logging and forest fragmentation. Increased awareness and protection of their habitats are essential for their continued presence in the region.
9. Burrowing Owl
- Scientific name: Athene cunicularia
- Life span: 6-8 years
- Size: 8-11 inches (20-28 cm)
- Weight: 5.3-8.5 oz (150-240 g)
- Wingspan: 20-24 inches (51-61 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and uncommon
The Burrowing Owl is a small, long-legged owl that makes its home in the open grasslands and prairies of South Dakota. Unlike most owls, it is active during the day and often seen perched on the ground or hovering over burrows.
Its light brown plumage, speckled with white, and bright yellow eyes give it a striking appearance. These owls live in burrows dug by prairie dogs or other animals, adding to their unique ground-dwelling behavior.
Burrowing Owls, as their name suggests, nest in underground burrows, often using those abandoned by prairie dogs or other animals. In South Dakota, they prefer open grasslands or prairies for nesting. The female lays between 6-12 eggs, and both parents share in incubating the eggs and caring for the young.
These owls are unique in their behavior, frequently seen standing near the entrance of their burrows during the day. They use various materials to line their nests, including feathers, grass, and even cow dung, which is believed to help control pests.
Burrowing Owls have a varied diet, consisting of insects, small mammals, and sometimes birds. In South Dakota, they hunt during both day and night, using their excellent vision to spot prey. Grasshoppers, beetles, and small rodents like mice are their primary food sources, especially during the summer months when insects are abundant.
They are known to hover above fields before swooping down to catch prey or chase insects on foot. Their ability to hunt both day and night makes them versatile predators in their grassland habitats.
Burrowing Owls have experienced population declines in South Dakota due to habitat loss, particularly the reduction of prairie dog colonies, which provide essential burrows for nesting. Conservation efforts focus on preserving grassland habitats and prairie dog populations, as these ecosystems are vital for the survival of Burrowing Owls.
Programs aimed at protecting native prairies and promoting coexistence between agriculture and wildlife have been crucial in supporting owl populations. Despite challenges, these efforts have helped stabilize the Burrowing Owl’s numbers in some regions of South Dakota, though they remain a species of concern.
Where to look for Owls in South Dakota
If you’re looking to spot owls in South Dakota, you’re in for a rewarding adventure. Owls can be tricky to find due to their nocturnal habits, but with patience and the right spots, you’ll have a good chance of seeing or hearing these mysterious birds.
The best times to look for owls are at dawn or dusk when they are most active. Bring a pair of binoculars and listen for their distinctive calls. Sometimes just waiting in a quiet spot can reveal an owl perched silently in a tree, watching over its territory. Look for signs like white droppings or pellets on the ground, which can indicate an owl’s roosting area.
Here are four great places to search for owls in South Dakota:
- Black Hills National Forest: Home to several owl species, including the Great Horned Owl and Northern Saw-whet Owl.
- Badlands National Park: Perfect for spotting the Burrowing Owl during the day in open areas.
- Custer State Park: A great spot for nighttime hikes to hear or see owls in the forests.
- Fort Pierre National Grassland: In winter, keep an eye out for the majestic Snowy Owl hunting across the plains.
Conclusion
Owls in South Dakota represent a fascinating blend of mystery, adaptability, and ecological importance. From the majestic Great Horned Owl to the elusive Northern Saw-whet, these birds are vital to the state’s diverse ecosystems.
Whether you’re in the forests, grasslands, or prairies, the chance to observe these incredible creatures adds to the rich wildlife experience South Dakota offers. Protecting their habitats ensures future generations can continue to marvel at the silent hunters of the night.
