What Types of Owls in Texas?

Texas is home to several species of owls, each adapted to the diverse habitats found across the state. Here are some of the common types of owls you can find in Texas:

1. Great Horned Owl
   • One of the most widespread owls in North America, including Texas. Known for its distinctive hooting call and large size, the Great Horned Owl has prominent ear tufts and hunts a variety of prey, from small mammals to birds.
2. Eastern Screech-Owl
   • A small, camouflaged owl with a trilling call. Found throughout Texas, this species comes in two color morphs: gray and reddish-brown. It often nests in tree cavities and is active at night, preying on insects and small animals.
3. Barn Owl
   • Known for its heart-shaped face and ghostly appearance, the Barn Owl is widespread across Texas. It prefers open areas like grasslands and farmland, where it hunts rodents at night with exceptional hearing and silent flight.
4. Barred Owl
   • Recognizable by its dark eyes and distinctive “who cooks for you” call, the Barred Owl is typically found in dense forests and wooded areas in East Texas. It feeds on a variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, and amphibians.
5. Burrowing Owl
   • Unusual among owls, the Burrowing Owl lives in open prairies and deserts, often in abandoned burrows of other animals like prairie dogs. It is small, with long legs, and can be seen hunting during the day in West Texas.
6. Short-eared Owl
   • This medium-sized owl is often found in open grasslands and prairies, especially in the winter. It has a distinctive floppy flight and hunts mainly during dawn and dusk.
7. Long-eared Owl
   • Though rare in Texas, the Long-eared Owl can be found in wooded areas and is known for its long, narrow ear tufts and preference for dense trees. It’s a secretive species, often heard rather than seen.

Each species plays an important role in the ecosystem, helping control populations of rodents and insects across the state.

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