While driving along the auto tour road at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, I spotted a flash of brown. A Barred Owl was perched low on a branch right next to the road, just above a water-filled roadside ditch. Unlike the usual high-tree sightings, this owl was at eye level, likely hunting for crayfish. With my camera ready, I captured a few photos.
The Diverse Diet of Barred Owls
Barred Owls have a surprisingly diverse diet. While they often target small mammals like mice, they’re opportunistic predators. Their menu can include birds, insects, amphibians, reptiles, fish, and even crayfish.
Crayfish and Feather Coloration
Catching crayfish is simple for these owls. They use their sharp talons to pluck them right from the water. Interestingly, eating crayfish can give some owls a pinkish tint to their belly feathers. This effect is due to carotenoids, pigments found in crayfish that also color flamingos pink. Researchers observed this phenomenon by studying owl feathers in areas rich in crayfish and found a direct correlation between diet and feather coloration. For birdwatchers, spotting a pinkish hue can be a clue to the owl’s recent meals.
Tips for Observing Wildlife
Next time you’re visiting a wildlife refuge, watch for more than just the usual animals like deer or herons. You might catch a Barred Owl indulging in an unexpected meal. Keep your camera handy—you never know when a Barred Owl might surprise you with its next meal!