Owls are fascinating birds of prey known for their silent flight, sharp vision, and nocturnal lifestyle. Found across nearly every continent, these birds vary greatly in size, color, and habitat—from tiny forest dwellers to massive mountain hunters.
In this guide, you’ll explore 25 common types of owls, each with unique characteristics including size, color, habitat, diet, and identification features to help you recognize them in the wild.
1. Barn Owl
The Barn Owl is one of the most widespread and recognizable owls in the world, known for its ghostly appearance and silent flight. Found on every continent except Antarctica, this owl thrives in open landscapes and often lives close to human settlements. Its pale coloration and heart-shaped face make it stand out from most other owl species.
Identification
- Distinct heart-shaped white facial disk
- Pale, golden-buff upperparts with gray mottling
- White to light-colored underparts
- Dark, almost black eyes
Size
Barn Owls typically measure about 13 to 15 inches in length, with a wingspan ranging from 39 to 49 inches. Females are usually slightly larger and often darker than males. Their long wings and light body make them well-suited for quiet, gliding flight.
Diet
They primarily feed on small mammals, especially rodents like mice, rats, and voles. A single Barn Owl can consume several rodents in one night, making it highly beneficial for farmers. Occasionally, they may also eat birds, insects, and amphibians.
Habitat
Barn Owls prefer open habitats such as grasslands, farmlands, marshes, and meadows. They commonly nest in barns, abandoned buildings, tree cavities, and cliffs. Their close association with human structures is how they got their name.
Behavior
Barn Owls are nocturnal hunters and are famous for their silent flight, which allows them to sneak up on prey undetected. They rely heavily on their excellent hearing, using their facial disk to locate sounds with precision, even in complete darkness.
2. Great Horned Owl
The Great Horned Owl is one of the most powerful and adaptable owls in the Americas. Known for its prominent ear tufts that resemble horns, it is a fierce predator capable of taking down a wide range of prey. Its deep hooting call is a familiar sound in many regions.
Identification
- Large owl with prominent ear tufts (“horns”)
- Mottled gray-brown plumage with a white throat patch
- Bright yellow eyes
- Broad wings and a strong, bulky body
Size
Great Horned Owls measure about 18 to 25 inches in length, with a wingspan of 3.3 to 4.8 feet. Females are larger and heavier than males, sometimes weighing over 5 pounds.
Diet
They are opportunistic hunters, feeding on mammals, birds, reptiles, and even other owls. Rabbits, rodents, and skunks are common prey. Their powerful talons allow them to capture relatively large animals.
Habitat
These owls are highly adaptable and live in forests, deserts, wetlands, grasslands, and urban areas. They often use abandoned nests built by other birds instead of building their own.
Behavior
Great Horned Owls are mainly nocturnal and highly territorial. They are known for their deep hooting calls and aggressive defense of their nesting areas.
3. Snowy Owl
The Snowy Owl is a striking and iconic owl of the Arctic, easily recognized by its white plumage. Unlike many owls, it is often active during the day and is well adapted to cold environments.
Identification
- Mostly white feathers with varying dark spots or bars
- Rounded head with no ear tufts
- Bright yellow eyes
- Thick plumage covering even the legs and feet
Size
Snowy Owls measure about 20 to 28 inches in length, with a wingspan of 4.2 to 4.8 feet. Females are larger and have more dark markings than males, which are often nearly pure white.
Diet
They mainly feed on small mammals, especially lemmings in their Arctic habitat. They may also hunt birds, including ducks and seabirds, depending on availability.
Habitat
Snowy Owls live in open tundra regions, coastal dunes, and grasslands. During winter, they may migrate south and appear in open fields or shorelines.
Behavior
Snowy Owls are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. They often perch on the ground or low elevations and rely on keen eyesight to spot prey across open landscapes.
4. Barred Owl
The Barred Owl is a large, forest-dwelling owl known for its distinctive call that sounds like “who cooks for you, who cooks for you all.” It is commonly found in wooded areas near water and is one of the few owls that may be active during the day as well as at night.
Identification
- Rounded head with no ear tufts
- Dark brown eyes
- Brown and white horizontal barring on chest and vertical streaks on belly
- Pale facial disk with concentric rings
Size
Barred Owls measure about 16 to 25 inches in length, with a wingspan of 38 to 49 inches. Females are slightly larger than males but appear very similar in coloration and markings.
Diet
They are opportunistic feeders, eating small mammals like mice and squirrels, as well as birds, amphibians, reptiles, and even fish. Their varied diet helps them adapt to different environments.
Habitat
Barred Owls prefer mature forests, especially near rivers, swamps, and wetlands. They rely on large trees for nesting and are increasingly found in suburban areas with enough tree cover.
Behavior
They are known for their curious nature and may observe humans from a distance. Their haunting calls echo through forests, especially during the early morning and evening hours.
5. Eastern Screech Owl
The Eastern Screech Owl is a small but highly adaptable owl commonly found in eastern North America. Despite its name, it does not actually screech often but produces a series of soft trills and whinnies.
Identification
- Small size with short ear tufts
- Gray or reddish-brown color morphs
- Yellow eyes and a rounded facial disk
- Well-camouflaged plumage that blends with tree bark
Size
Eastern Screech Owls measure about 6 to 10 inches in length, with a wingspan of 18 to 24 inches. Females are slightly larger than males.
Diet
They feed on a wide variety of prey including insects, small mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Their flexible diet allows them to thrive in many environments.
Habitat
These owls are found in forests, woodlands, parks, and suburban areas. They often nest in tree cavities or nest boxes provided by humans.
Behavior
Eastern Screech Owls are nocturnal and rely on camouflage during the day. They are excellent hunters and use their silent flight to capture prey efficiently at night.
6. Western Screech Owl
The Western Screech Owl is a small, well-camouflaged owl found in western North America. Like its eastern relative, it is known more for its soft trills than actual screeching sounds. It blends perfectly with tree bark, making it difficult to spot during the day.
Identification
- Small owl with short ear tufts
- Gray or brown mottled plumage
- Yellow eyes and a rounded facial disk
- Excellent camouflage against tree bark
Size
Western Screech Owls measure about 7 to 10 inches in length, with a wingspan of 20 to 24 inches. Females are slightly larger than males.
Diet
They feed on insects, small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Their diet varies depending on availability and season.
Habitat
These owls prefer woodlands, deserts, and suburban areas with trees. They often nest in tree cavities or use nest boxes.
Behavior
Western Screech Owls are nocturnal and rely heavily on camouflage during the day. At night, they hunt quietly using their sharp hearing and silent flight.
7. Long-eared Owl
The Long-eared Owl is a slender and secretive owl known for its tall ear tufts and excellent camouflage. It is often difficult to spot as it roosts in dense foliage during the day.
Identification
- Tall, prominent ear tufts
- Orange eyes with a dark facial disk
- Brown and buff mottled plumage
- Slim body with long wings
Size
Long-eared Owls measure about 13 to 16 inches in length, with a wingspan of 35 to 40 inches. Females are slightly larger than males.
Diet
They mainly feed on small mammals such as voles and mice. Occasionally, they may also eat small birds.
Habitat
These owls prefer forests, woodlands, and areas with dense tree cover. They often roost in groups during the day in thick vegetation.
Behavior
Long-eared Owls are nocturnal and very secretive. They rely on camouflage and quiet behavior to avoid detection, becoming active mainly at night for hunting.
8. Short-eared Owl
The Short-eared Owl is a unique owl often seen flying low over open fields and grasslands. Unlike many owls, it is active during the day, especially at dawn and dusk, and is known for its buoyant, moth-like flight.
Identification
- Short, barely visible ear tufts
- Yellow eyes with dark patches around them
- Brown, streaked plumage with pale underwings
- Broad wings and a rounded head
Size
Short-eared Owls measure about 13 to 17 inches in length, with a wingspan of 33 to 43 inches. Females are slightly larger than males.
Diet
They mainly feed on small mammals such as voles and mice. They may also hunt small birds when rodents are scarce.
Habitat
These owls prefer open habitats like grasslands, marshes, and agricultural fields. They often nest on the ground in areas with tall grasses.
Behavior
Short-eared Owls are partially diurnal and often seen hunting in daylight. They fly low over fields while scanning for prey and can hover briefly before dropping down to capture it.
9. Northern Saw-whet Owl
The Northern Saw-whet Owl is a small and elusive owl known for its soft, repetitive calls that resemble the sound of a saw being sharpened. Despite its size, it is a skilled and efficient hunter.
Identification
- Small, round body with no ear tufts
- Large yellow eyes and a pale facial disk
- Brown plumage with white spots
- Short tail and compact appearance
Size
Northern Saw-whet Owls measure about 7 to 8 inches in length, with a wingspan of 16 to 19 inches. Females are larger than males.
Diet
They mainly feed on small mammals such as mice and voles. They may also eat insects and small birds when available.
Habitat
These owls prefer dense forests, especially coniferous woodlands. They often roost in thick vegetation, making them hard to detect.
Behavior
Northern Saw-whet Owls are nocturnal and very secretive. They rely on their excellent hearing and silent flight to hunt effectively in darkness.
10. Boreal Owl
The Boreal Owl is a small and elusive owl found in northern forests. It is rarely seen due to its secretive nature and preference for dense, remote habitats. Despite its size, it is a skilled nighttime hunter.
Identification
- Small, rounded head with no ear tufts
- Large yellow eyes and pale facial disk
- Brown plumage with white spots and streaks
- Compact body with a short tail
Size
Boreal Owls measure about 8 to 11 inches in length, with a wingspan of 20 to 24 inches. Females are slightly larger than males but appear very similar.
Diet
They mainly feed on small mammals such as voles and mice. They may also eat birds and insects when prey is available.
Habitat
These owls prefer dense coniferous forests in cold, northern regions. They often nest in tree cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes.
Behavior
Boreal Owls are strictly nocturnal and highly secretive. They rely on excellent hearing and silent flight to locate and capture prey in darkness.
11. Tawny Owl
The Tawny Owl is a common and well-known owl across Europe and parts of Asia. It is famous for its classic hooting call often associated with nighttime forests.
Identification
- Rounded head with no ear tufts
- Brown or gray plumage (varies by individual)
- Large dark eyes
- Compact body with a short tail
Size
Tawny Owls measure about 14 to 16 inches in length, with a wingspan of 32 to 41 inches. Females are larger than males but both look similar.
Diet
They mainly feed on small mammals such as mice and voles. They also eat birds, insects, and amphibians depending on availability.
Habitat
These owls prefer deciduous and mixed forests, parks, and gardens. They adapt well to human presence and are often found near towns.
Behavior
Tawny Owls are nocturnal and territorial. Their deep hooting calls are commonly heard at night, especially during the breeding season.
12. Ural Owl
The Ural Owl is a large and powerful forest owl found across Europe and Asia. It is known for its calm appearance, long tail, and strong territorial behavior, especially during the breeding season.
Identification
- Rounded head with no ear tufts
- Pale gray to brown plumage with fine streaks
- Large dark eyes
- Long tail compared to most owls
Size
Ural Owls measure about 20 to 24 inches in length, with a wingspan of 43 to 52 inches. Females are larger and more robust than males.
Diet
They mainly feed on small mammals such as voles and mice. They may also hunt birds, frogs, and insects depending on availability.
Habitat
These owls prefer dense forests, especially coniferous and mixed woodlands. They often nest in tree cavities or use old nests built by other birds.
Behavior
Ural Owls are mostly nocturnal but can be active at dusk and dawn. They are known to be very protective of their nests and may show aggressive behavior toward intruders.
13. Little Owl
The Little Owl is a small and compact owl commonly found across Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa. It is often seen during the day and is known for its bold and curious nature.
Identification
- Small size with a rounded head and no ear tufts
- Brown plumage with white spots
- Yellow eyes with a stern expression
- Short tail and compact body
Size
Little Owls measure about 8 to 10 inches in length, with a wingspan of 21 to 23 inches. Females are slightly larger than males but look very similar.
Diet
They feed on insects, small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Their varied diet helps them adapt to different environments.
Habitat
These owls prefer open countryside, farmland, orchards, and rocky areas. They often nest in tree holes, walls, or buildings.
Behavior
Little Owls are partially diurnal, meaning they are active during the day as well as at night. They often perch in open areas and watch their surroundings closely.
14. Elf Owl
The Elf Owl is the smallest owl in the world, known for its tiny size and lively behavior. Despite its small stature, it is an active and capable hunter, often seen in desert and woodland regions.
Identification
- Very small size with no ear tufts
- Gray-brown plumage with faint streaks
- Large yellow eyes
- Short tail and compact body
Size
Elf Owls measure about 5 to 6 inches in length, with a wingspan of 10 to 12 inches. Females are slightly larger than males but still extremely small.
Diet
They mainly feed on insects such as moths, beetles, and crickets. Occasionally, they may also eat small reptiles.
Habitat
These owls prefer desert regions, woodlands, and areas with cactus trees. They often nest in old woodpecker holes in cacti or trees.
Behavior
Elf Owls are nocturnal and very active. They are known for their quick movements and high-pitched calls during the night.
15. Burrowing Owl
The Burrowing Owl is a unique ground-dwelling owl that lives in open landscapes. Unlike most owls, it nests underground in burrows, often using abandoned holes made by other animals.
Identification
- Small owl with long legs
- Brown plumage with white spots
- Bright yellow eyes
- Lacks ear tufts and has a flat head
Size
Burrowing Owls measure about 7 to 10 inches in length, with a wingspan of 20 to 24 inches. Females are slightly larger than males.
Diet
They feed on insects, small mammals, reptiles, and birds. Insects make up a large portion of their diet, especially during warmer months.
Habitat
These owls prefer open habitats such as grasslands, deserts, and farmlands. They live in burrows on the ground rather than in trees.
Behavior
Burrowing Owls are active during the day as well as at night. They are often seen standing near their burrow and may bob their heads when alarmed.
16. Spotted Owl
The Spotted Owl is a medium-sized forest owl known for its dark plumage marked with white spots. It is closely tied to old-growth forests and is an important species in conservation due to habitat loss.
Identification
- Dark brown feathers with distinct white spots
- Rounded head with no ear tufts
- Large dark eyes
- Pale facial disk with subtle markings
Size
Spotted Owls measure about 16 to 19 inches in length, with a wingspan of 39 to 43 inches. Females are slightly larger than males but appear very similar.
Diet
They mainly feed on small mammals such as rodents, especially flying squirrels and woodrats. They may also eat birds and insects when available.
Habitat
These owls prefer dense, mature forests with thick canopy cover. They rely on old trees for nesting and hunting.
Behavior
Spotted Owls are mostly nocturnal and very quiet. They hunt by perching and listening before making a silent flight to catch prey.
17. Great Gray Owl
The Great Gray Owl is one of the largest owls in the world by length, known for its impressive size and striking facial disk. Despite its size, it is lightweight due to its fluffy feathers.
Identification
- Very large owl with a rounded head and no ear tufts
- Gray plumage with fine streaks
- Large facial disk with concentric rings
- Yellow eyes and a small beak
Size
Great Gray Owls measure about 24 to 33 inches in length, with a wingspan of 4.5 to 5 feet. Females are slightly larger than males.
Diet
They mainly feed on small mammals such as voles and mice. They can locate prey beneath snow using their excellent hearing.
Habitat
These owls prefer boreal forests, coniferous woodlands, and mountainous regions. They are often found in remote and cold environments.
Behavior
Great Gray Owls are mostly active at dawn and dusk. They are known for their silent flight and ability to hunt even under deep snow using precise hearing.
18. Northern Hawk Owl
The Northern Hawk Owl is a unique owl that behaves more like a hawk than a typical owl. It is active during the day and often seen perched high while scanning for prey in open northern landscapes.
Identification
- Long tail and hawk-like shape
- Brown upperparts with white spots
- White face bordered with black
- Bright yellow eyes
Size
Northern Hawk Owls measure about 14 to 18 inches in length, with a wingspan of 28 to 35 inches. Females are slightly larger than males.
Diet
They mainly feed on small mammals such as voles and mice. They also hunt birds, especially during winter when rodents are scarce.
Habitat
These owls prefer open boreal forests, woodland edges, and tundra regions. They need open spaces for hunting and trees for perching.
Behavior
Unlike most owls, Northern Hawk Owls are diurnal (active during the day). They sit on high perches and swoop down quickly to catch prey.
19. Spectacled Owl
The Spectacled Owl is a large tropical owl known for the distinctive “spectacle” markings around its eyes. It is found in Central and South America and is often heard more than seen.
Identification
- Dark body with a pale face
- White markings around the eyes resembling glasses
- Yellow eyes and a dark facial disk
- Cream-colored chest
Size
Spectacled Owls measure about 17 to 20 inches in length, with a wingspan of 30 to 36 inches. Females are slightly larger than males.
Diet
They feed on small mammals, birds, insects, and reptiles. Larger individuals may take bigger prey such as opossums.
Habitat
These owls prefer tropical rainforests, woodlands, and plantations. They require dense vegetation for roosting and nesting.
Behavior
Spectacled Owls are nocturnal and known for their deep, rhythmic calls. They are usually solitary and remain hidden during the day.
20. Black-and-white Owl
The Black-and-white Owl is a striking tropical species known for its bold contrasting plumage. Found in Central and South America, it stands out among owls due to its unique coloration and slender build.
Identification
- Bold black-and-white plumage
- Rounded head with no ear tufts
- Bright yellow eyes
- Dark facial disk with white markings
Size
Black-and-white Owls measure about 14 to 16 inches in length, with a wingspan of around 30 to 36 inches. Females are slightly larger than males but look very similar.
Diet
They mainly feed on insects such as beetles and moths. They may also hunt small mammals and reptiles when available.
Habitat
These owls prefer tropical forests, especially dense lowland and mountainous regions. They are usually found in areas with thick vegetation.
Behavior
Black-and-white Owls are nocturnal and often perch quietly while scanning for prey. They are known for their distinctive calls and are usually seen alone or in pairs.
21. Brown Wood Owl
The Brown Wood Owl is a large and powerful owl found across South and Southeast Asia. It is known for its deep hooting calls and strong presence in forested habitats.
Identification
- Rich brown plumage with pale streaks
- Rounded head with no ear tufts
- Dark eyes set in a pale facial disk
- Broad wings and sturdy body
Size
Brown Wood Owls measure about 18 to 22 inches in length, with a wingspan of 45 to 55 inches. Females are slightly larger than males.
Diet
They feed on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Their varied diet allows them to adapt to different environments.
Habitat
These owls prefer forests, plantations, and wooded areas near water. They require dense tree cover for roosting.
Behavior
Brown Wood Owls are nocturnal and known for their deep, echoing calls. They remain hidden during the day and become active after sunset.
22. Mottled Wood Owl
The Mottled Wood Owl is a medium to large owl commonly found in South Asia. It is known for its distinctive appearance and deep, echoing calls that are often heard at night in wooded areas.
Identification
- Grayish-brown mottled plumage with fine streaks
- Rounded head without ear tufts
- Dark eyes set in a pale facial disk
- Broad wings and compact body
Size
Mottled Wood Owls measure about 18 to 20 inches in length, with a wingspan of around 45 to 50 inches. Females are slightly larger than males but both look very similar.
Diet
They mainly feed on small mammals such as rodents and bats. They also eat birds, reptiles, and large insects when available.
Habitat
These owls prefer forests, groves, and wooded areas near human settlements. They are often found in large trees and sometimes in parks or urban green spaces.
Behavior
Mottled Wood Owls are nocturnal and highly vocal. Their deep, haunting calls are commonly heard at night, while they remain hidden during the day.
23. Blakiston’s Fish Owl
Blakiston’s Fish Owl is one of the largest and rarest owls in the world. Native to parts of Russia, China, and Japan, it is strongly associated with rivers and is known for its powerful build and fishing ability.
Identification
- Large body with shaggy brown plumage
- Prominent ear tufts
- Yellow eyes with a broad facial disk
- Thick legs and strong talons
Size
Blakiston’s Fish Owls measure about 24 to 28 inches in length, with a wingspan of up to 6 feet. Females are larger and heavier than males.
Diet
They mainly feed on fish, which they catch from rivers and streams. They also eat amphibians, crabs, and small mammals when available.
Habitat
These owls prefer dense forests near rivers, especially in cold regions. They require old-growth forests and clean waterways to survive.
Behavior
Blakiston’s Fish Owls are mostly nocturnal but may also be active at dawn and dusk. They often perch near water and wait patiently before striking prey with precision.
24. Buffy Fish Owl
The Buffy Fish Owl is a medium-sized owl found in South and Southeast Asia. It is closely associated with water and is known for its soft, buff-colored plumage and strong hunting ability.
Identification
- Buff (light brown) plumage with darker streaks
- Prominent ear tufts
- Yellow eyes and a pale facial disk
- Strong legs and talons
Size
Buffy Fish Owls measure about 15 to 17 inches in length, with a wingspan of around 40 to 48 inches. Females are slightly larger than males.
Diet
They mainly feed on fish, crabs, and amphibians. They may also eat small mammals and birds when available.
Habitat
These owls prefer forests near rivers, lakes, and wetlands. They are often found close to water sources where prey is abundant.
Behavior
Buffy Fish Owls are nocturnal and often perch near water while hunting. They use patience and quick strikes to catch prey from the surface.
25. Eurasian Eagle-Owl
The Eurasian Eagle-Owl is one of the largest and most powerful owls in the world. Found across Europe and Asia, it is known for its striking appearance and dominant presence as a top predator.
Identification
- Large owl with prominent ear tufts
- Orange eyes and a broad facial disk
- Mottled brown, black, and buff plumage
- Strong, heavy body with large talons
Size
Eurasian Eagle-Owls measure about 23 to 30 inches in length, with a wingspan of 5 to 6.5 feet. Females are larger and heavier than males.
Diet
They feed on a wide variety of prey including mammals, birds, reptiles, and even other raptors. Their strength allows them to hunt large animals.
Habitat
These owls inhabit mountains, forests, cliffs, and open landscapes. They often nest on rocky ledges or in secluded areas.
Behavior
Eurasian Eagle-Owls are mostly nocturnal and highly territorial. They are known for their deep, powerful calls and silent, controlled flight while hunting.
