Barred Owls, with their distinctive hooting calls and captivating gaze, are fascinating creatures that can bring a touch of wild magic to your backyard. Attracting these majestic birds to your yard not only provides a unique opportunity for birdwatching enthusiasts but also offers valuable ecological benefits. This article will guide you on how to create an inviting environment for Barred Owls and explore the reasons why you’d want to welcome them into your outdoor space.
Before delving into attracting Barred Owls, it’s essential to understand their characteristics. Barred Owls (Strix varia) are medium-sized owls characterized by their striking barred plumage, round faces, and dark, soulful eyes. They are adaptable birds found in diverse habitats, including forests, swamps, and urban areas across North America. The Barred Owl is found in the Eastern, Central, and Northwestern part of the United States. As with most owls, they are primarily nocturnal, but can also be found hunting during the day. They are found in heavily forested areas, which does pose a problem when trying to attract them. However, it isn’t impossible.
For more fun facts about Barred Owls, I found these articles interesting:
No, Barred Owls Are Not Trying to Kill You | Audubon
Know Your Nocturnal Neighbors: Nine Owl Sounds to Listen For | ABC (abcbirds.org)
Why Attract Barred Owls?
Natural Pest Control: Barred Owls play a crucial role in controlling rodent populations. Their diet includes small mammals like mice, voles, and rats, making them effective and natural pest controllers. Owls are incredibly successful predators and pose zero environmental issues that are found with feral and domesticated cats.
Ecological Balance: By attracting Barred Owls, you contribute to the overall ecological balance in your area. These owls help regulate the populations of prey species, preventing overpopulation and maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
Educational Opportunities: Observing Barred Owls in your yard provides an excellent educational opportunity, especially for children. Learning about these magnificent birds and their behavior fosters an appreciation for wildlife and the environment.
The Call of the Barred Owl: Nothing brings a smile to my face more than the call of a Barred Owl calling to his mate and her reply. It makes the whole world feel like a truly magical place as if anything could suddenly happen. But only something wonderful.
How to Attract Barred Owls
Provide Suitable Habitat: Barred Owls prefer areas with a mix of open spaces and dense woods. Ensure your yard has a combination of tall trees for roosting and perching, as well as open spaces for hunting.
Nesting Boxes: Install owl nesting boxes high in the trees to provide suitable nesting sites. Barred Owls may use these boxes for shelter and breeding, especially if natural cavities are scarce.
Offer a Varied Diet: Attract a diverse range of prey to your yard to entice Barred Owls. Plant native vegetation to attract insects and encourage small mammals by leaving a portion of your yard in its natural state.
Create a Water Source: Owls, like other wildlife, need access to water. Installing bird baths or small ponds can attract both prey and Barred Owls seeking a drink.
Minimize Light Pollution: Barred Owls are nocturnal hunters, and excessive artificial light can disrupt their hunting activities. Minimize outdoor lighting to create a more natural environment. This is highly beneficial for migratory birds, as well.
Limit Noise Disturbances: Barred Owls are sensitive to disturbances. Minimize noise in your yard to create a peaceful and inviting habitat.
Conclusion
Attracting Barred Owls to your yard is a rewarding endeavor that not only enhances your birdwatching experience but also contributes to the ecological balance of your local environment. By providing suitable habitat, nesting opportunities, and a diverse food supply, you can create an owl-friendly space that benefits both these magnificent birds and your appreciation of the natural world.