Barred Owl (Strix varia)
Barred Owl image © Alan Murphy
Family: (Strigidae) Owls
Preferred Habitat: Dense swamps and moist woodlands.
Seasonal Occurrence: Common throughout the year. Nests in our area.
Notes: The Barred Owl is a large (21") owl with dark eyes and no "ear" tufts. Its numbers appear to be stable; in fact it is expanding its range in the northwest. In that region it may be replacing the less aggressive, endangered Spotted Owl. It prefers to use a tree cavity for its nest, but will also take advantage of owl houses, abandoned buildings and crow nests. The call of the Barred Owl is considered by many as the typical owl sound, with a series of highly resonant hoots: Who cooks for you?. This call may often be heard in the daytime. One of the best areas to look for Barred Owls in Houston is along Patterson Road, on the southern boundary of Bear Creek Park and along Sharp Road, in far northwest Houston (Katy Prairie).
- Susan Billetdeaux