Barred Owl —Ross Feldner

The Barred Owl is a large, rotund bird, only exceeded in size by the Great Horned Owl. It get its name from the horizontal barring on its throat and upper breast, contrasting with a pattern of irregular bold, vertical streaks just below. Barred Owls have large eyes set in a large, round head that lacks ear tufts. Unlike many bird species there are no plumage variations between the sexes.
    The Barred Owl can capture and kill mammals as large as an opossum, but usually consumes smaller animals such as rabbits, squirrels, rodents, salamanders, frogs, fish, crayfish, beetles and other insects. They will also hunt a variety of bird species and have even been known to kill and eat screech owls. Most small prey is swallowed whole, headfirst; larger animals are eaten where they are caught. Barred Owls are prey themselves and are frequently killed by Great Horned Owls and large mammals, especially raccoons.
    This owl is monogamous and strongly territorial preferring nest sites in tree cavities that have enough space for incubation. Juveniles will climb trees before they can fly, using their beaks and talons.