All About BAAARN OWLS!!!

Barn owls (Tyto alba) are one of the most widely distributed owl species. The Western Barn Owl is a medium sized owl with no ear-tufts and a heart-shaped face. The species name "alba" refers to the colour white. Other names for the Barn Owl have included Monkey-faced Owl, Ghost Owl, Church Owl and Common Barn Owl. Length 34-38cm. Wing length 290-358mm. Tail length 113-152mm. Weight 387-660g. Females often larger and heavier than males. Generally nocturnal, although it is not uncommon to see this species emerge at dusk or be active at dawn, occasionally being seen in flight during full daylight. Flight is noiseless, with relatively slow wing beats. Daytime roosts are often in Palm trees.

Similar to other Barn Owls, the American Barn Owl feeds mainly on small mammals, especially voles, rats and mice. They will also take bats, birds, frogs, small reptiles and larger insects. They generally hunt from a perch, but may also catch prey in flight. These owls are found in a majority of habitats, though high altitudes are avoided. They were introduced to Hawaii in 1958, and hail from North and South America.

INTERESTING MYTHOLOGY FACT. Barn owls are thought to symbolize fertility, knowledge and wisdom, and in many cultures, seeing a barn owl is meant to bring an omen of transformation. There are also dream interpretations of what it means to see and hear a barn owl in your dream, sometimes about death.

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