Why Barred Owls Are More Active Now

Today’s photo features a magnificent Barred Owl I spotted at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. It was perched perfectly camouflaged in a dead tree right beside the road! I almost missed it entirely, but a chatty Red-headed Woodpecker clued me in with its distinctive calls. Thanks little buddy!

This sighting was particularly rewarding because I’d actually spoken to another photographer earlier who mentioned we should be seeing Barred Owls, and I hadn’t had any luck yet. It turns out timing is everything.

Intrigued, I checked my past photos from the refuge and realized something interesting: I had photographed several Barred Owls in late March and early April during previous visits. It seems this might be the prime time to see them here!

There’s a good reason for this seasonal trend. Barred Owls in the eastern US, including Oklahoma, typically begin nesting in March and continue through April. During this time, they become more active and vocal. The male owl steps up his hunting game to provide food for the female while she incubates eggs or cares for the chicks. This increased activity often spills over into daylight hours.

Once hatched, the owlets stay in the nest for about a month before venturing out. Naturally, this period requires even more frequent feedings from the parents, making them even more conspicuous during the day.

Another factor contributing to their daytime visibility is their loyalty to nesting sites. Barred Owls often return to the same spot year after year. As they become comfortable and familiar with their established territory, they might be more relaxed about being active during daylight hours, especially if they’ve successfully raised young there before.

In conclusion, my encounter with this Barred Owl highlights the fascinating changes in their behavior during nesting season. Their flexible hunting habits, the need to care for their young, and their established territories all likely contribute to their increased daytime activity during this crucial period. So, if you’re hoping to spot a Barred Owl, keep an eye out in late March and April – you might just get lucky, with a little help from a friendly woodpecker!