It is one of the most widely distributed birds that are easily identifiable due to their heart shaped face as you can see in barn owl pictures. It is a fascinating species of birds, which possess predatory tendencies, nocturnal habitat and amazing hunting skills. Here, in this article, you will find important barn owl information, so read on.

Measurements

The Barn Owl has a body length of 14-20 inches, a 3.5 feet wingspan and weighs about 8-21 ounces. The owl's measurements vary greatly throughout the world.

Barn Owls Can Be Found Almost Everywhere

One of the amazing Barn Owl facts is that it can be observed almost everywhere except deserts or Polar Regions. Antarctica, being a polar region, has never been a habitat to Barn Owls. Other than that, the barn owl habitat stretches across every region of the world. Their white undersides and white face, with peculiarly downturned beak make them extremely fascinating and mysterious. Their eyes are fixed in their sockets, so they have to turn their entire heads in order to ensure proper vision of their surroundings.

Barn Owl Possesses Predatory Tendencies

Despite their sleepy and calm appearance, they possess extra ordinary predatory tendencies. They can see quite well in the dark while their hearing enables them to hunt their prey even in the absence of light. Barn Owls mostly feed on hunt birds, fish, reptiles and insects. Their low, noiseless, and downward flight make them efficient and successful hunters. Unlike other birds, Barn Owls are nocturnal and only begin hunting when it gets fully dark.

Reproduction

Barn Owls usually nest in hollow structures like tress, cliffs and caves and sometimes in man-made structures like chimneys. The female normally lays 4-7 eggs. The male brings barn owl diet to the nest while the female incubates the eggs and takes care of chicks. The incubation period usually last for 29-34 days. Young owls fledge 7-10 weeks after hatching but do not leave their nests until they have turned 5 months old.

Barn Owl Has Various Names

Barn owl is known with various names throughout the world. Its different names include the white owl, heart-shaped owl, monkey-faced owl, silver-owl, demon-owl, church-owl among many others.

Barn Owls Are Superstitious Birds

Barn owls have always been a mysterious and superstitious bird. In some cultures, Barn Owl is associated with death, omen, witchcraft and misfortune. Conversely, others associate this bird with prosperity and wisdom. In some American cultures, the owl is believed to be tied with sorcery and black magic; hence making the bird a taboo.