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The barn owl is a farmer’s best friend. By hunting mice and other small mammals, which it can catch in total darkness, the owl helps control the population of these pint-sized grain thieves.

Owls are especially good at sneaking up on prey as they make little noise while flying. Soft, fringed feathers cut down on the sound of wings flapping, while larger wings compared to their body size requires fewer wing flaps overall.

barn owl face up close

Did You Know?

Vanishing Barns: As old barns are torn down, fewer barn owls have a place to call home.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Tyto alba

Range:
Worldwide

Habitat:
Grassland, desert, marsh, and agricultural fields

Length:
1 to 1.5 ft

Lifespan:
20 yrs

Diet:
Small mammals such as mice, voles, and shrews