Maybe you’re an amateur ornithologist who loves to spot different species of owls while you’re outside. Or perhaps you’ve got an owl to keep as a pet, and you’re doing a little research to make sure you’re giving it the right care.
Either way, you’re sure to come across two different species of owls that look very similar in the barn owl vs barred owl debate. For two species of similar appearance, there’s a lot that sets these species of owl apart, both behaviorally and in terms of care.
So read on, and we’ll help you break down the differences.
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The Physical Differences Between Barn Owls and Barred Owls
Barn owls and barred owls are commonly confused with each other. While they may look similar at first glance.
For their color, Barn owls are mostly white with some brown or grey markings, while barred owls are brown or grey with dark stripes.
There are also some differences in their size and weight. Barn owls are smaller, with a wingspan of about 90-105cm. Barred owls are larger, with a wingspan of about 120-140cm. Barn owls also weigh less, about 400-500g, while barred owls weigh about 500-700g.
The Hunting and Eating Habits of Barn Owls vs Barred Owls
Barn owls are typically found in open areas, such as fields or meadows, while barred owls are more likely to inhabit wooded areas.
When hunting, a barn owl uses its sharp vision and hearing to locate its prey, which they then capture with its talons. A barred owl, on the other hand, uses its powerful sense of hearing to locate prey hidden in the underbrush. Once it has found its prey, they use its sharp claws and beak to kill and eat it.
Barn owls typically eat small mammals, such as mice or voles, while barred owls will eat a variety of prey, including rodents, reptiles, and amphibians.
The Mating and Nesting Habits of Barn Owls vs Barred Owls
When it comes to mating, a barn owl typically mates for life, while a barred owl will find a new mate every year. Barn owls also usually nest in tree cavities or old buildings, while barred owls prefer to build their nests in the hollows of trees.
Additionally, barn owls typically have larger clutches of eggs (5-7) than barred owls (3-5), and barn owl chicks typically hatch earlier than barred owl chicks. Finally, barn owls are more likely to hunt during the day, while barred owls are more nocturnal.
Check out this guide to know more about owl’s nesting habits.
The Habitat and Geographical Range of Barn Owls vs Barred Owls
There are also differences in their habitat and range. Barn owls are found in open habitats such as fields and farmland, while barred owls are found in forests. Barn owls also have a wider range, being found in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia, while barred owls are found only in North America.
Barn Owl Vs Barred Owl
Although both barn owls and barred owls are beautiful creatures, their difference in diet is significant. When choosing between the two, it is important to consider what you are looking for in an owl. If you are looking for an owl to help control rodents, the barn owl is the better choice. If you are looking for an owl that is a little more diverse in its diet, the barred owl is the better choice. Be sure to do your research to find the right one for you!
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