Barred owls (Strix varia) are a widespread, relatively large forest owl across much of Washington, particularly in the west where mature and riparian forests are common. They are year-round residents inhabiting lowland to montane woods, often near water, including urban-adjacent wooded lots. Recognized by their horizontal barring on breast and back, dark eyes, and lack of ear tufts, barred owls differ ecologically and vocally from native western screech-owls and the smaller northern pygmy-owl. This profile explains how to identify barred owls, where to find them, their behavior and diet, and key conservation and management considerations specific to Washington.
Identification and Vocalizations
How to Recognize a Barred Owl
Barred owls are medium to large owls with rounded heads, no ear tufts, and a relatively long, blunt tail. The upperparts are brown and gray with white and brown horizontal barring; the underparts are whitish with prominent brown horizontal barring giving the species its common name. Facial discs are gray to brown with concentric rings; the eyes are dark brown. In flight, the wings appear broad and rounded, and the trailing edge of the wing often shows a pale bar. They measure approximately 16–24 inches in length with a wingspan around 38–49 inches and typically weigh 17–37 ounces, showing little sexual dimorphism in size. They are often confused with northern spotted owls but barred owls are generally larger, darker-eyed, and have vertical barring on the belly rather than spots.
- Size and shape: Large owl, long tail, rounded wings, no ear tufts.
- Dimensions: 16–24 in length; wingspan 38–49 in; weight 17–37 oz.
- Plumage patterns: Horizontal barring on breast and back; whitish base color with brown bars.
- Eyes and facial features: Dark eyes; concentric facial disc rings.
Barred Owl Calls and Sounds
Barred owls are notably vocal and can be detected by distinctive calls, especially in breeding and territorial contexts. Their classic two-part song is often phrased as “Who cooks for you, who cooks for you all,” and is delivered as a series of clear, hooting notes. They also produce shorter barking or cackling calls, as well as a loud, rapid “hoo hoo hoo” during aggressive interactions. These calls carry well through forested landscapes and are a primary method for detecting barred owls during surveys.
Distribution and Habitat in Washington
Barred owls range broadly across eastern North America and have expanded westward; in Washington they are most common in the western portion of the state, west of the Cascades, where extensive coniferous and mixed forests provide suitable habitat. They inhabit lowland riparian zones, mature and old-growth forests, and increasingly foothill and suburban wooded areas. Populations are denser in areas with large, contiguous forest patches and abundant prey resources, though barred owls can persist in fragmented landscapes if wooded corridors remain. In Washington, historical range expansion and competitive interactions with native species such as northern spotted owls have shaped current distribution patterns.
Behavior, Diet, and Ecological Role
Hunting and Prey Selection
Barred owls are generalist nocturnal hunters, relying on sit-and-wait tactics from elevated perches before dropping to capture prey. Their diet is diverse and includes small mammals such as voles, mice, and shrews; birds including grouse, small ducks, and passerines; amphibians, particularly salamanders; reptiles; and large insects. Near water, they frequently take crayfish and other aquatic invertebrates. By regulating rodent and amphibian populations, barred owls play an important functional role in forest ecosystems.
- Foraging strategy: Sit-and-wait from perches; short flights to seize prey.
- Primary prey: Small mammals, amphibians, birds, aquatic invertebrates.
Breeding and Territorial Behavior
Barred owls are monogamous and territorial year-round, defending areas that can span several hundred acres. Courtship displays include duets and soft hoots, with nesting occurring in tree cavities or on platforms, often in large, mature trees. Clutch sizes typically range from two to four eggs, which the female incubates while the male provides food. Young fledge several weeks after hatching and remain dependent on parents for several months. Their adaptability to various forest types contributes to their success across Washington.
Conservation Status and Management in Washington
Barred owls are not considered threatened or endangered in Washington and are listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN. However, they present complex conservation questions due to their interactions with the federally threatened northern spotted owl. Barred owls compete for habitat and food and are known to hybridize or displace spotted owls in some areas. In Washington, management strategies have included habitat restoration for spotted owls, and, in limited areas and under strict permitting, experimental removal of barred owls to reduce competitive pressure. These efforts aim to balance ecosystem function and support recovery of native species while acknowledging ethical and ecological trade-offs. Legally, barred owls remain protected under state and federal wildlife laws, and lethal control is highly restricted.
Key Conservation Points
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Conservation status | Not listed federally as threatened or endangered in Washington | State and federal wildlife agencies |
| Threatened counterpart | Northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis) | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Management approach | Habitat restoration and limited, permitted removal in select areas | State and federal recovery plans |
| Hybridization risk | Documented hybridization with northern spotted owls | Peer-reviewed studies and agency reports |
| Legal protection | Protected under state and federal law; lethal take restricted | Washington State law and federal regulations |
Coexistence and Safety Considerations
Barred owls are generally tolerant of human presence and can be observed in wooded parks and neighborhoods adjacent to forested areas. They are not aggressive toward humans but may defend nests if directly threatened. Preventing conflicts focuses on responsible land practices, such as retaining mature trees and riparian buffers, minimizing artificial lighting that can attract prey, and avoiding disturbance during breeding season. Birders and residents can support barred owl conservation by reporting sightings to local wildlife agencies, participating in citizen science initiatives, and respecting seasonal restrictions near known nesting sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are barred owls native to Washington? Yes, barred owls are native to Washington and have long been part of the region’s avian fauna, though their westward range expansion in recent decades has increased their overlap with northern spotted owls.
- What do barred owls eat in urban areas? In urban and suburban settings, barred owls may consume rodents, introduced species such as pigeons and small birds, and aquatic prey when water bodies are available.
- Can I attract barred owls to my property? Maintaining large, mature trees and protecting existing forested corridors can support barred owls, though intentionally attracting them may increase conflicts with sensitive species like spotted owls.
- What should I do if I find an injured barred owl? Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or local animal control. Avoid handling the bird unnecessarily, and minimize stress by containing it in a dark, quiet box until help arrives.
- Are barred owls protected in Washington? Yes, barred owls are protected under state and federal law; take or possession requires appropriate permits, and lethal control is highly restricted.
Conclusion
Barred owls are a common, widespread presence in Washington’s forests and increasingly in wooded urban edges. Their striking appearance and vocal nature make them one of the state’s most recognizable owls. While populations remain secure, their expansion has complicated the conservation of native spotted owls. Understanding barred owl ecology, respecting legal protections, and supporting large forest conservation efforts are essential for balancing healthy ecosystems and preserving the region’s natural heritage.