Where can I find barn owls?
Where do I find barn owls?
Barn owls (Tyto alba) can be found in various parts of the world. They have a widespread distribution and are present on every continent except Antarctica.
Farmlands: Barn owls often reside in agricultural areas, including fields, pastures, and farmlands. These habitats provide an abundant source of prey, such as mice, voles, and rats.
Grasslands: They are known to inhabit open grasslands and prairies, where they can easily locate and hunt their preferred prey in the tall grass.
Woodlands: Barn owls are occasionally found in woodlands that border open spaces or feature a mix of open space and trees. They may nest in tree hollows.
Wetlands: They occasionally inhabit wetland areas, such as marshes, swamps, and riparian zones. Wetlands can provide suitable hunting grounds and nesting sites for barn owls.
Coastal areas: In some regions, barn owls are found near coastal areas, including saltmarshes, dunes, and estuaries. These habitats may offer a mix of open spaces and grassy areas where they can hunt.
Urban and suburban areas: Surprising to most, barn owls have adapted to living in human-altered environments and can be found in cities, towns, and suburban areas. They may nest in buildings, barns, church towers, or other structures with suitable hollow spaces/features.