Washington State, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offers a unique opportunity to explore the mysterious and fascinating world of owls. With its diverse landscapes ranging from dense, evergreen forests to the rugged coastlines and alpine meadows, the state is home to a wide variety of owl species, each with its own distinct characteristics and behaviors.
In this article, we delve into the nocturnal realm of these raptors, unveiling the secrets of their lives and habitats. From the silent flight of the Great Gray Owl in the expansive coniferous forests to the elusive and rare sightings of the Spotted Owl in the old-growth canopies, each species presents a unique story.
We’ll explore the best spots for owl watching in the state, such as the Skagit Wildlife Area and Olympic National Park and offer tips on how to responsibly observe these magnificent birds in their natural environment.
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
Majestically perched, the Great Horned Owl is a symbol of wisdom and mystique. Found across the Americas, from the Arctic tundras of Canada to the tropical rainforests of South America, its geographical range is remarkably vast.
This owl’s most striking features are its large, tufted ears and piercing yellow eyes, which stand out against a backdrop of mottled brown, black, and white feathers. Its face is framed by a noticeable reddish-brown facial disc, enhancing its imposing and wise appearance.
Great Horned Owls use existing structures for nesting, such as other birds’ nests, tree cavities, or ledges. They prefer high, secluded spots for safety. These owls often reuse the same nest for several years, laying 2-3 eggs annually, with both parents involved in incubation and care.
Their diet is diverse, including mammals like rabbits and rodents, and occasionally birds and reptiles. They hunt at night, using sharp talons and acute senses to capture prey. This varied diet reflects their adaptability and role as apex nocturnal predators.
Conservation status is stable, thanks to their adaptability. However, they face threats from habitat loss, pesticides, and human disturbances. Efforts focus on habitat protection, reducing pesticide use, and public education about their ecological importance.
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: 29 to 36 cm (11 to 14 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The American Barn Owl, a ghostly presence in the night, inhabits a range spanning the Americas, Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia and Australasia. Its heart-shaped face, a signature trait, radiates an eerie beauty, complemented by its pure white underparts.
The upper parts are a mix of gray and light brown, speckled with white, offering a striking contrast. Its dark, soulful eyes add a mysterious depth to its overall ethereal appearance.
American Barn Owls nest in secluded, elevated spots like barns, steeples, and trees, or in human-provided nesting boxes. They lay 4-6 eggs, with the female incubating and the male providing food. Both parents care for the young until they fledge.
Their diet primarily includes small mammals, particularly rodents. By controlling rodent populations, these owls play a crucial role in their ecosystems. They hunt at night, using their exceptional hearing and silent flight.
Barn Owls face challenges from habitat loss and pesticide use. Conservation efforts focus on providing nesting boxes and protecting barns and other traditional nesting sites. Education about their benefits in controlling rodent populations helps in their conservation
3. 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
Inhabiting dense woodlands across the eastern United States and parts of Canada, the Barred Owl is a creature of serene beauty. It is easily recognized by its distinctive “hooting” call, reminiscent of a warm, southern night.
The owl’s plumage is an intricate pattern of brown and white vertical stripes, giving it its name. Its dark, soulful eyes, set against a rounded face, evoke a sense of wisdom and tranquillity, typical of the owl family.
Like American Barn Owls, Barred Owls form lifelong monogamous pairs during mating season. Courtship rituals involve males spreading their wings, awaiting female acceptance in February. These devoted owls construct nests in hollow tree trunks within dense forests.
Barred Owls have a diverse diet, focusing on small mammals like mice and voles. They also prey on smaller birds, reptiles, and insects. Occasionally, they target larger prey such as rabbits and squirrels. They locate their quarry using acute hearing near forest rivers and wetlands, adapting by scavenging when food is scarce.
With a global population of around 3 million, Barred Owls are widespread in North America and are classified as “Least Concern” by the IUCN. However, they face threats such as prey contamination and the destruction of their forest habitats.
4. 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 common
Roaming the open landscapes of North and South America, the Short-eared Owl is a sight to behold in grasslands and marshes. This owl is distinguishable by its short ear tufts, which are often invisible, giving it a round-headed silhouette.
The bird boasts a mottled pattern of brown and tawny on its upper body, while its underparts are streaked with darker tones, harmonizing with its yellow eyes and black-rimmed facial disc for a captivating look.
Short-eared Owls nest on the ground in open fields or marshes, making simple scrapes lined with grass and feathers. This ground-nesting makes them vulnerable to predators. Females incubate 4-7 eggs, with males providing food.
Their diet mainly consists of small mammals like voles and mice. These owls hunt during twilight, flying low over fields and using keen hearing to detect prey. Their feeding habits are crucial for controlling rodent populations in their habitats.
Facing habitat loss from agricultural development, Short-eared Owls need grassland conservation. Efforts include habitat preservation and management, population monitoring, and legal protection under wildlife laws to prevent hunting and trading.
5. 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 uncommon
The Long-eared Owl, a master of disguise, is found across the Northern Hemisphere. Its elongated ear tufts, resembling a rabbit’s ears, stand tall against a backdrop of mottled brown and buff plumage.
The facial disc is rufous with a black border, accentuating its piercing orange eyes. This owl’s cryptic colouring allows it to blend seamlessly into the branches during the day, making it a mysterious and elusive figure of the avian world.
Long-eared Owls are secretive nesters, often using abandoned nests of other birds in dense foliage to stay hidden. They lay 4-6 eggs, with incubation primarily by the female, while the male provides food. Their reclusive nesting habits help protect them from predators.
Their diet mainly consists of small mammals like voles and mice. They hunt at night, flying low and silently over open fields or woodlands. Their hunting efficiency is crucial for controlling rodent populations in their environments.
The main conservation concern for Long-eared Owls is habitat loss, particularly in nesting areas. Efforts include preserving woodlands and grasslands, along with raising public awareness about their secretive nature and ecological role.
6. 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 common
A diminutive yet charming species, the Northern Saw-whet Owl inhabits the forests of North America. Its appearance is enchanting, with a large, rounded head lacking ear tufts, creating a perpetually surprised expression.
The owl’s plumage is a rich brown, adorned with white streaks and spots, and its underparts are creamy with fine, brown barring. The bird’s captivating yellow eyes are set against a white facial disc, bordered with brown, making it a delightful sight.
Northern Saw-whet Owls use tree cavities, often those created by woodpeckers, for nesting. They line the cavity with bark and feathers. Females lay 4-7 eggs and solely handle incubation, while males provide food. Their nesting choices help them stay concealed and protected.
Their diet primarily consists of small mammals, especially mice. These owls are skilled nocturnal hunters, using their acute hearing and silent flight to ambush prey. Occasionally, they may also consume insects and small birds.
Conservation concerns for Northern Saw-whet Owls include habitat loss and climate change. Efforts focus on preserving forest habitats and providing nesting boxes. Research and monitoring programs help understand their population dynamics and migration patterns.
7. 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 rare
The Burrowing Owl, a resident of open landscapes across the Americas, stands out with its long legs and relatively small stature. It has a mottled brown and white plumage, with distinctive white eyebrows over bright yellow eyes.
Unlike its arboreal cousins, this owl lives in underground burrows, offering a unique perspective on owl behaviour. Its charismatic appearance and ground-dwelling habits make it a fascinating subject for bird enthusiasts and naturalists alike.
Unique among North American owls, Burrowing Owls live and nest in underground burrows, often those abandoned by prairie dogs or ground squirrels. They lay 6-12 eggs in these burrows, which offer protection from predators. Both parents participate in nesting duties.
Their diet consists mostly of insects, small mammals, and occasionally small birds and reptiles. Burrowing Owls are diurnal, hunting mostly during the day. Their presence in an ecosystem indicates a healthy balance of prey species.
The primary conservation concern for Burrowing Owls is habitat loss due to agricultural and urban development. Conservation initiatives include habitat preservation and restoration, as well as public education about the importance of these unique birds and their grassland habitats.
8. 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, an Arctic dweller, is a mesmerizing bird with a predominantly white plumage that echoes its snowy habitat. Occasional black barring adds a striking contrast to its otherwise immaculate appearance. Its golden eyes, set in a round, white face, exude a fierce and regal aura.
During winter, these owls may venture south into the United States, gracing the skies with their majestic presence and captivating all who catch a glimpse of them.
Snowy Owls nest on the ground, typically in open, treeless areas. They form a shallow scrape in the earth, lined minimally with feathers and down. Females lay 3-11 eggs, depending on food availability. Both parents defend the nest fiercely against predators, showcasing a strong protective instinct.
Primarily feeding on lemmings and other small rodents, Snowy Owls are crucial for controlling these populations in their Arctic tundra habitat. They also eat birds and fish. These owls hunt both day and night, adapting to the continuous daylight of their summer breeding grounds.
Conservation efforts for Snowy Owls include monitoring their breeding and wintering grounds, especially as climate change affects their Arctic habitat. Efforts also focus on mitigating threats from aviation and habitat disturbance. Research and tracking movements are essential for understanding their ecological needs.
9. Great Grey Owl
- Scientific name: Strix nebulosa
- Life span: 8-10 years
- Size: 24-33 inches (60-84 cm)
- Weight: 24-60 oz (680-1700 g)
- Wingspan: 54-60 inches (137-152 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and uncommon
The Great Gray Owl, an emblem of the boreal forests, can be found in the northern reaches of North America and Eurasia. This owl’s impressive stature is accentuated by a large, round head with no ear tufts and a distinct facial disc framed by concentric circles of gray. Its plumage is a subtle blend of grays and browns, giving it a ghostly appearance as it silently glides through the forest.
Great Gray Owls do not build their own nests but use abandoned raptor nests, large tree cavities, or broken treetops. They lay 2-5 eggs, and the female incubates them. These owls choose nesting sites in dense forests, offering seclusion and proximity to hunting areas.
Their diet mainly consists of small rodents, particularly voles. Great Gray Owls hunt by perching and listening for prey movements under the snow or vegetation, then swooping down to capture them. Their hunting skills are crucial for controlling rodent populations in their habitats.
Conservation concerns for Great Gray Owls include habitat loss and fragmentation, particularly in old-growth forests. Efforts include habitat protection and managing forests in a way that supports their breeding and hunting needs. Research on their breeding habits and population trends is also vital for their conservation.
10. Western Screech Owl
- Scientific name: Megascops kennicottii
- Life span: Up to 10 years
- Size: 20-25 cm (8-10 in)
- Weight: 170-230 g (6-8 oz)
- Wingspan: 46-61 cm (18-24 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Native to the Western United States and Mexico, the Western Screech-Owl is a small, stocky bird with a large head and no visible ear tufts. Its feathers are a complex mix of gray, brown, and white patterns, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
The owl’s piercing yellow eyes and pale facial disc are prominent against the darker plumage, creating a captivating and mysterious appearance that intrigues and delights observers.
Western Screech-Owls prefer nesting in tree cavities, often in riparian or wooded areas. They may also use nest boxes. Females lay 2-7 eggs, with incubation lasting about 26 days. The male provides food during this period, demonstrating a division of parental duties.
Their diet includes a variety of small mammals, insects, and occasionally small birds and reptiles. They hunt at night, using their excellent night vision and hearing. This diverse diet highlights their adaptability to different environments and prey availability.
Conservation efforts for Western Screech-Owls focus on protecting their habitat, particularly mature forests and riparian areas. Providing nest boxes in areas where natural cavities are scarce is another important strategy. Monitoring and research are key to understanding their population trends and habitat requirements.
11. Northern Pygmy Owl
- Scientific name: Glaucidium californicum
- Life span: Up to 7 years
- Size: 15-18 cm (6-7 in)
- Weight: 57-85 g (2-3 oz)
- Wingspan: 15 inch (38 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The Northern Pygmy-Owl, a diminutive yet fierce predator, inhabits the forests of North America. Its plumage is primarily brown with white spots on the head and wings, and its belly is streaked with dark vertical lines. The most intriguing feature is the two black patches on the back of its neck, resembling eyes, which serve as a defense mechanism against predators.
Western Screech-Owls prefer nesting in tree cavities, often in riparian or wooded areas. They may also use nest boxes. Females lay 2-7 eggs, with incubation lasting about 26 days. The male provides food during this period, demonstrating a division of parental duties.
Their diet includes a variety of small mammals, insects, and occasionally small birds and reptiles. They hunt at night, using their excellent night vision and hearing. This diverse diet highlights their adaptability to different environments and prey availability.
Conservation efforts for Western Screech-Owls focus on protecting their habitat, particularly mature forests and riparian areas. Providing nest boxes in areas where natural cavities are scarce is another important strategy. Monitoring and research are key to understanding their population trends and habitat requirements.
12. Flammulated Owl
- Scientific name: Psiloscops flammeolus
- Life span: Up to 8 years
- Size: 15-18 cm (6-7 in)
- Weight: 57-85 g (2-3 oz)
- Wingspan: 38-43 cm (15-17 in)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and uncommon
In the dense forests of the Western United States and Central America, the Flammulated Owl thrives. This small owl is notable for its camouflaging plumage of gray and rusty tones, enabling it to blend seamlessly into the bark of trees.
With its round head, lacking ear tufts, and large, dark eyes, it presents a striking image. The Flammulated Owl’s preference for old-growth forests makes it a symbol of pristine wilderness areas.
Flammulated Owls are cavity nesters, relying on old woodpecker holes in trees, typically in montane forests. They lay 2-4 eggs per clutch. The female incubates the eggs while the male provides food. Their nesting sites, high in the trees, provide protection from many ground predators.
These owls primarily feed on insects, especially moths. They are adapted to hunting at night, using their acute hearing to locate prey. Their diet reflects their role in controlling insect populations in forest ecosystems.
Flammulated Owls are sensitive to habitat destruction, especially the loss of old-growth forests. Conservation efforts focus on preserving these habitats and conducting research to better understand their ecological needs and population dynamics.
13. 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
- State status: Breeding and common
Inhabiting dense woodlands across eastern North America, the Barred Owl is a sight to behold with its distinctive barred plumage. Its brown eyes peer out from a round, grayish-brown face, surrounded by concentric rings of brown and white.
The body is adorned with vertical bars on the upper breast and horizontal barring on the belly and back. This pattern gives the Barred Owl a unique, almost philosophical appearance, as if it were cloaked in wisdom.
Barred Owls nest in large tree cavities, old nests of other large birds, or sometimes in human-made platforms. They lay 2-4 eggs per clutch. Both parents participate in raising the young, with the female primarily incubating and the male providing food.
These owls feed on a variety of small animals, including rodents, birds, and amphibians. They are opportunistic hunters, hunting mostly at night but sometimes during the day in dense woods. Their diet reflects the biodiversity of their forest habitat.
Barred Owls are relatively abundant, but they face threats from habitat destruction and competition with other owl species. Conservation efforts include protecting forest habitats and monitoring interactions with other owl species, particularly the Spotted Owl.
14. Spotted Owl
- Scientific name: Strix occidentalis
- Life span: 10 – 15 years
- Size: 43 cm (17 in)
- Weight: 500-700 g (17.6-24.7 oz)
- Wingspan: 114 cm (45 in)
- Status: Near threatened
- State status: Breeding and uncommon
Inhabiting the old-growth forests of western North America, the Spotted Owl is a symbol of forest conservation battles. This medium-sized owl is characterized by its dark brown plumage, mottled with white spots, giving it its name.
Its dark eyes, set in a pale facial disc, add to its distinctive appearance. The Spotted Owl’s reliance on ancient forests makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat loss.
Spotted Owls prefer to nest in natural tree cavities, abandoned nests of other birds, or on tree platforms in old-growth forests. They lay 2-3 eggs, with the female primarily responsible for incubation. The choice of deep forest habitats provides necessary cover and proximity to hunting areas.
Their diet consists mainly of small mammals, particularly rodents, and occasionally birds and insects. They are nocturnal hunters, relying on stealth and surprise to catch prey. Their hunting practices contribute significantly to maintaining the balance of small mammal populations in their ecosystems.
Spotted Owls are critically threatened by habitat loss, particularly in old-growth forests, and competition with Barred Owls. Conservation strategies focus on habitat preservation and management, as well as research to understand their specific habitat needs and reproductive success.
15. Boreal Owl
- Scientific name: Aegolius funereus
- Life span: 8-10 years
- Size: 8-10 inches (22-27 cm)
- Weight: 3.5-7.5 oz (100-210 g)
- Wingspan: 20-24 inches (51-61 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and uncommon
The Boreal Owl, a resident of the northern boreal forests across North America and Eurasia, is a small, elusive owl. It has a rounded head with no ear tufts and is adorned with brown plumage interspersed with white spots.
The owl’s facial disc is pale, providing a striking contrast with its dark eyes. These owls are often found in dense, coniferous forests, where they blend into the environment, making them a challenge to spot.
Boreal Owls nest in tree cavities in dense boreal forests. They lay 3-6 eggs, with the female incubating and the male providing food. These owls choose nesting sites that offer protection from harsh weather and predators, often in older, undisturbed forest areas.
They primarily feed on small mammals, especially voles and mice. Boreal Owls hunt at night, using their excellent hearing to locate prey under snow or vegetation. Their hunting habits play a crucial role in controlling rodent populations in boreal forest ecosystems.
The main conservation concern for Boreal Owls is habitat degradation, particularly in boreal forests due to logging and development. Efforts to conserve Boreal Owls focus on protecting and managing their forest habitats, especially older, undisturbed areas that are crucial for nesting and hunting. Research and monitoring are also key in understanding their population dynamics and reproductive patterns.
Where to look for Owls in Washington
You have a good chance of spotting various owl species in their natural habitats in Washington, thanks to the diverse landscapes ranging from coastal areas to mountainous regions. To maximize your chances of seeing these elusive creatures, it’s essential to know where to look and how to observe them respectfully.
Here are some tips for finding owls in Washington:
- Time of Day: Owls are primarily nocturnal, so your best chances are during dusk or dawn. However, some species, like the Northern Pygmy Owl, are active during the day.
- Quiet Observation: Owls can be sensitive to noise. It’s crucial to keep quiet and minimize disturbance while observing.
- Use Binoculars: To avoid getting too close and startling the owls, use binoculars or a spotting scope for a clear view from a distance.
- Listen for Calls: Owls have distinctive calls. Listening for these can be a reliable way to locate them.
Four great areas for owl spotting in Washington are:
- Skagit Wildlife Area: Known for its diverse bird populations, including several owl species.
- Discovery Park in Seattle: Offers a mix of open meadows and forested areas, ideal for birdwatching.
- Olympic National Park: Its vast wilderness is home to a variety of owls, including the rare Spotted Owl.
- Mount Rainier National Park: The park’s varied habitats support a range of owl species.
Remember, while owls are fascinating to observe, it’s crucial to respect their space and the environment. Avoid using flash photography or playing recorded calls, as these can disrupt their natural behaviours.
Conclusion
Washington’s owls, with their diverse behaviours and ecological roles, are vital to the state’s ecosystems. Their unique habits and conservation challenges remind us of the delicate balance in nature. Protecting these magnificent birds and their habitats is essential for maintaining the biodiversity and health of Washington’s natural environments.
