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July 27, 2026Sources cited
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Barn owl

The barn owl is a medium-sized owl known for its pale, heart-shaped face and nocturnal hunting behavior.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The barn owl is a medium-sized owl known for its pale, heart-shaped face and nocturnal hunting behavior. Its scientific name is commonly given as Tyto alba, though some authorities split the group into multiple species, including the American barn owl (Tyto furcata). It is one of the most widespread owl species and is generally considered a species of least concern.

Description

Barn owls are medium-sized owls with long wings, a short tail, dark eyes, and a distinctive pale facial disc. Their plumage is generally buff, brown, and white, with regional variation across populations.

Behaviour and diet

Barn owls are nocturnal and usually hunt by flying low over open ground. Their diet consists mostly of small mammals, especially rodents, though they may also take birds and other small vertebrates.

Distribution and habitat

Barn owls occur across much of the world in open habitats such as farmland, grassland, and meadows. They often nest or roost in barns, church towers, tree cavities, cliff crevices, and nest boxes.

Taxonomy

The barn owl complex has been treated differently by taxonomists, with some authorities recognizing multiple species rather than one globally distributed species. A common split separates the Old World barn owl from the American barn owl.

Key facts

  • Barn owls are nocturnal predators that hunt mainly small mammals such as mice and voles.
  • They are recognized by a pale, heart-shaped facial disc and lack ear tufts.
  • Barn owls roost in natural cavities and human-made structures such as barns, towers, and nest boxes.
  • They have a broad global range and are found on most continents.
  • Barn owls are considered beneficial in agricultural areas because they help control rodents.
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Canadian context

Barn owls occur in parts of Canada, especially in southern British Columbia, and are of interest to Canadian wildlife observers and conservation efforts.

Frequently asked questions

What does a barn owl look like?
It has a pale, heart-shaped face, dark eyes, no ear tufts, and buff, brown, and white plumage.
What do barn owls eat?
They mainly eat small mammals such as mice, voles, and rats, and sometimes take birds and other small prey.
Where do barn owls live?
They live in open habitats on most continents and often use barns, tree cavities, church towers, and nest boxes.
Are barn owls active during the day?
No. Barn owls are mainly nocturnal and hunt at night.
What is the scientific name of the barn owl?
The scientific name is commonly given as Tyto alba, although some authorities split American populations into Tyto furcata.
Is the barn owl endangered?
No. It is generally listed as least concern, though some local populations have declined.

References

  1. National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/birds/facts/barn-owl
    Supports: Scientific name, diet, conservation status, widespread distribution, habitat, and general ecology.
  2. Cornell Lab of Ornithology — https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Barn_Owl/overview
    Supports: Nocturnal behavior, hunting in open fields, appearance, and the American barn owl treatment.
  3. Owl Research Institute — https://www.owlresearchinstitute.org/barn-owl
    Supports: Physical description, North American occurrence, and conservation notes.
  4. University of Michigan BioKIDS — https://biokids.umich.edu/critters/Tyto_alba/
    Supports: Size, appearance, nesting sites, diet, lifespan, and behavior.
  5. Barn Owl Trust — https://www.barnowltrust.org.uk/barn-owl-facts/
    Supports: Diet, hunting behavior, and ecological role in controlling rodents.