10 Owls of Wisconsin

Introduction

Welcome to Owls of Wisconsin, your guide to the fascinating world of these nocturnal predators. Join us as we explore the diverse species of owls that call Wisconsin home, uncovering their behaviors, habitats, and unique adaptations. From the iconic Great Horned Owl to the elusive Barred Owl, discover the secrets of these majestic birds of prey as we delve into their captivating lives in the Badger State.

These amazing birds are loved by bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With their mysterious charm and nocturnal habits, owls hold a special place in our hearts. In Wisconsin, you can find 10 different owl species.

1.Great Horned Owl

Great Horned Owl, a majestic symbol of strength and wisdom in the night skies. With its piercing yellow eyes and distinctive “horns,” this formidable predator reigns over diverse habitats across the Americas. From dense forests to urban parks, it preys on creatures as large as skunks and as small as mice, showcasing its versatility as a hunter. Join us as we delve into the world of the Great Horned Owl, unraveling its secrets of survival and marveling at its silent flight in the moonlight

Biography of Great Horned Owl

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Great Horned Owl
Scientific Name	Bubo virginianus
Country	North and South America
Number of Eggs	1 to 4 eggs
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 30 days
Diet	Carnivorous, small mammals, birds, reptiles
Habitat	Varied, forests, grasslands, urban areas
Migration (yes or no)	No
Body Size	18 to 25 inches (46 to 63 cm)
Body Weight	2 to 5.5 pounds (0.9 to 2.5 kg)
Dangerous for Humans	Generally not dangerous, but can be defensive if provoked
Maximum Flight Height	Up to 10,000 feet (3,048 meters)
Weather	Nocturnal, active in various weather conditions
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	Several subspecies
Total Color	Varied shades of brown, gray, and white

2.Barred Owl

Barred Owl, a charismatic woodland dweller with soulful eyes and a hooting call. With its distinctive barred plumage and nocturnal habits, this owl is a symbol of mystery in North American forests. From its haunting vocalizations to its stealthy hunting of small mammals, the Barred Owl embodies the magic of the night. Join us as we venture into the world of the Barred Owl, uncovering its role as a top predator and its fascinating adaptations for survival in the wild.

Biography of Barred Owl

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Barred Owl
Scientific Name	Strix varia
Country	North America
Number of Eggs	2-4 eggs
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 28-33 days
Diet	Mainly small mammals, birds, amphibians, and invertebrates
Habitat	Mixed forests, woodlands, swamps, and riparian areas
Migration (yes or no)	Generally non-migratory
Body Size	40–63 cm (16–25 in) in length
Body Weight	500–1,050 grams (1.1–2.3 lbs)
Dangerous for Humans	Generally not dangerous, but can be defensive if threatened
Maximum Flight Height	Typically fly at tree canopy level
Weather	Nocturnal, active in various weather conditions
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	One species
Total Color	Brown and white, with barred patterns on the chest and vertical streaks on the belly

3. Eastern Screech Owl

Eastern Screech Owl, a pint-sized predator with a big presence. With its distinctive trill and camouflaged plumage, this owl blends seamlessly into its woodland habitat. Found throughout eastern North America, it’s a master of stealth, hunting insects and small rodents under the cover of night. Join us as we explore the enchanting world of the Eastern Screech Owl, uncovering the secrets of its silent flight and its vital role in maintaining ecological balance

Biography of Eastern Screech Owl

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Eastern Screech Owl
Scientific Name	Megascops asio
Country	North America
Number of Eggs	3-5 eggs
Incubation Period for Eggs	26-28 days
Diet	Mainly small mammals, birds, insects
Habitat	Woodlands, forests, suburban areas
Migration (yes or no)	Mostly sedentary, some may migrate short distances
Body Size	6.3-9.8 inches (16-25 cm)
Body Weight	4.3-8.6 ounces (122-245 grams)
Dangerous for Humans	Not dangerous, but can be defensive if threatened
Maximum Flight Height	Typically low to the ground
Weather	Nocturnal, active during the night
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	Several types, including red and gray morphs
Total Color	Red, gray, or brown

4.Barn Owl

Barn Owl, a silent hunter of the night with a heart-shaped face. With its ghostly appearance and keen senses, this owl is a symbol of mystery and grace. Found in a variety of habitats worldwide, from farmland to forests, it preys on rodents with precision and stealth. Join us as we delve into the world of the Barn Owl, unraveling the secrets of its nocturnal lifestyle and admiring its beauty in the moonlight.

Biography of Barn Owl

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Barn Owl
Scientific Name	Tyto alba
Country	Worldwide, except polar regions
Number of Eggs	4-7
Incubation Period for Eggs	29-34 days
Diet	Mainly rodents
Habitat	Grasslands, farmlands, forests
Migration (yes or no)	Mostly non-migratory
Body Size	33-39 cm (13-15 inches)
Body Weight	200-500 grams
Dangerous for Humans	Not dangerous
Maximum Flight Height	Up to 10,000 feet
Weather	Nocturnal, prefers clear nights
Birds (yes or no)	Yes (it’s a bird!)
Total Types	1 (Barn Owl species)
Total Color	Mostly pale with a mix of tan, brown, and white

5. Snowy Owl

Snowy Owl, a symbol of Arctic beauty. With its stunning white plumage and piercing gaze, this owl captures the imagination of nature enthusiasts worldwide. From the frozen landscapes of the Arctic to occasional sightings in other regions, the Snowy Owl’s presence is both captivating and mysterious. Join us as we journey into the world of the Snowy Owl, uncovering its secrets and admiring its graceful flight across snow-covered terrain.

Biography of Snowy Owl

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Snowy Owl
Scientific Name	Bubo scandiacus
Country	Arctic regions, North America
Number of Eggs	3 to 11 eggs
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 32 days
Diet	Mainly lemmings, small mammals
Habitat	Arctic tundra, open landscapes
Migration (yes or no)	Partial migration
Body Size	Large
Body Weight	2.95 to 6.6 lbs (1.34 to 3 kg)
Dangerous for Humans	Not generally dangerous, but can defend nest if threatened
Maximum Flight Height	Up to 100 feet (30 meters)
Weather	Well-adapted to cold climates, can withstand low temperatures
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	One of the larger owl species
Total Color	Mostly white plumage with some dark markings

6.Northern Saw-whet Owl

Northern Saw-whet Owl, a charming bird with a big personality. From its small size to its distinctive call, this owl enchants birdwatchers in forests and wooded areas. With its nocturnal habits, it hunts under the moonlit sky, feasting on insects and small rodents. Join us as we explore the world of the Northern Saw-whet Owl, uncovering its secrets hidden within the shadows of the night.

Biography of Northern Saw-whet Owl

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Northern Saw-whet Owl
Scientific Name	Aegolius acadicus
Country	North America
Number of Eggs	3 to 7
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 27 days
Diet	Mainly small mammals, birds, and insects
Habitat	Coniferous and mixed woodlands, forests, and wooded areas
Migration (yes or no)	Partial migratory; some individuals migrate, while others are resident
Body Size	Small
Body Weight	Approximately 75-110 grams
Dangerous for Humans	Not dangerous, but can defend themselves if threatened
Maximum Flight Height	Typically low to the ground, around tree height
Weather	Prefers cool, temperate climates; can endure cold temperatures
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	1 (Northern Saw-whet Owl)
Total Color	Brown, white, and tan

7.Long-eared Owl

Long-eared Owl, a fascinating bird with distinctive features and habits. From its scientific name Asio otus to its widespread presence across forests, woodlands, and marshes, this owl captures the imagination of bird enthusiasts worldwide. With a diet of small mammals and birds, it thrives in various weather conditions, showing its adaptability. Join us as we explore the world of the Long-eared Owl, from its nocturnal activities to its beautiful streaked brown feathers and iconic orange-toned facial disc.

Biography of Long-eared Owl

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Long-eared Owl
Scientific Name	Asio otus
Country	Varies (cosmopolitan distribution)
Number of Eggs	3-8
Incubation Period for Eggs	25-30 days
Diet	Small mammals, birds
Habitat	Forests, woodlands, marshes
Migration (yes or no)	Partial, some populations migrate
Body Size	35-40 cm (14-16 inches)
Body Weight	170-300 grams
Dangerous for Humans	Generally not dangerous, but may defend nest if threatened
Maximum Flight Height	Up to 2,000 meters (6,600 feet)
Weather	Nocturnal, active in various weather conditions
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	Various subspecies exist
Total Color	Brown with streaks, facial disc with distinctive orange tones

8.Short-eared Owl

Short-eared Owl, a captivating bird known for its unique traits and behaviors. From its scientific name Asio flammeus to its widespread presence in grasslands, marshes, and tundra habitats, this owl sparks curiosity among nature lovers. With a diet mainly consisting of small mammals and birds, it roams these open landscapes, showcasing its medium size and mottled brown and buff feathers. Join us as we delve into the world of the Short-eared Owl, uncovering its twilight flights and the beauty of its natural habitats.

Biography of Short-eared Owl

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Short-eared Owl
Scientific Name	Asio flammeus
Country	Worldwide, except Antarctica
Number of Eggs	Typically 4 to 7
Incubation Period for Eggs	About 21 to 28 days
Diet	Mainly small mammals, birds
Habitat	Grasslands, marshes, tundra
Migration (yes or no)	Yes, but can be sedentary
Body Size	Medium-sized
Body Weight	206 to 475 grams
Dangerous for Humans	Not considered dangerous
Maximum Flight Height	Typically low to the ground
Weather	Active during twilight hours
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	Various subspecies
Total Color	Mottled brown and buff

9.Northern Hawk Owl

Northern Hawk Owl, a captivating bird of prey with a striking appearance and agile hunting skills. With its piercing yellow eyes and streamlined body, this owl resembles a hawk in flight, earning its name. Found in boreal forests and open woodlands across the Northern Hemisphere, it hunts during daylight hours, showcasing its exceptional vision and aerial prowess. Join us as we explore the world of the Northern Hawk Owl, uncovering its fascinating adaptations and role as a skilled predator in its ecosystem.

Biography of Northern Hawk Owl

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Northern Hawk Owl
Scientific Name	Surnia ulula
Country	Northern Hemisphere
Number of Eggs	3-11
Incubation Period for Eggs	Approximately 26-28 days
Diet	Small mammals, birds, and insects
Habitat	Coniferous and mixed forests, open woodland, tundra
Migration (yes or no)	Nomadic, may migrate based on prey availability
Body Size	Approximately 14-17 inches (35-43 cm) in length
Body Weight	7-14 ounces (200-400 grams)
Dangerous for Humans	Generally not dangerous, but may defend nest if threatened
Maximum Flight Height	Typically low-level flights, rarely above treetops
Weather	Well-adapted to cold climates, can endure harsh winter conditions
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	One main species
Total Color	Brown and white plumage, with distinctive facial disk

10.Burrowing Owl (Rarely Seen in Wisconsin)

Burrowing Owl, a charismatic species known for its unique lifestyle and elusive presence in Wisconsin. These small owls, often found in open grasslands and prairies, make their homes in underground burrows dug by other animals. While rare in Wisconsin, lucky observers may catch a glimpse of these fascinating birds hunting insects and small rodents during dusk and dawn. Join us as we uncover the secrets of the Burrowing Owl and its occasional appearances in the Badger State’s landscape.

Biography of Burrowing Owl

Aspect	Information
Species Name	Burrowing Owl
Scientific Name	Athene cunicularia
Country	Varies (North and South America)
Number of Eggs	6-12 eggs
Incubation Period for Eggs	28-30 days
Diet	Mainly insects, small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians
Habitat	Grasslands, deserts, open areas with low vegetation
Migration (yes or no)	Mostly non-migratory, but some populations may migrate
Body Size	7.5 to 10 inches (19 to 25 cm)
Body Weight	4.5 to 9 ounces (125 to 250 grams)
Dangerous for Humans	Generally not dangerous, shy and non-aggressive
Maximum Flight Height	Typically low to the ground, up to 10 feet (3 meters)
Weather	Prefers warm climates, adapted to arid regions
Birds (yes or no)	Yes
Total Types	1 (Burrowing Owl)
Total Color	Brown, white, and speckled markings

FAQS

What types of owls can be found in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin is home to several owl species, including the Great Horned Owl, Barred Owl, Eastern Screech Owl, Barn Owl, and occasionally the Northern Saw-whet Owl and Long-eared Owl.

When is the best time to spot owls in Wisconsin?

Owls are most active during the night, especially during the hours around dusk and dawn. However, some species, like the Eastern Screech Owl and Great Horned Owl, may also be active during the early evening or early morning hours.

Where are the best places to find owls in Wisconsin?

Owls can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, marshes, and even urban areas with suitable habitat. Look for them near wooded areas with open fields nearby, where they hunt for prey like rodents and small birds.

Do owls migrate through Wisconsin?

While some owl species are migratory, others, like the Great Horned Owl and Barred Owl, are year-round residents in Wisconsin. However, species such as the Northern Saw-whet Owl and Long-eared Owl may migrate through the state during certain times of the year.

Are there any threats to owl populations in Wisconsin?

Owls face various threats, including habitat loss, collisions with vehicles, and pesticide use affecting their prey. Additionally, disturbances to nesting sites and illegal hunting can impact owl populations. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation, education, and reducing human-related threats to these magnificent birds.