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Barn Owl
Tyto alba
Tyto alba
The barn owl is a farmer’s best friend. By hunting mice and other small
mammals, which it can catch in total darkness, the owl helps control the
population of these pint-sized grain thieves. As old barns are torn
down, however, fewer barn owls have a place to call home. They are
considered threatened in Ohio for this reason.
Fact file:
Length: 1 to 1.5 ft
Weight: Up to 1.4 lbs
Wingspan: 3.3 to 4 ft
Lifespan: About 2 yrs in the wild, up to 10 yrs in captivity
Habitat: Grassland, desert, marsh, and agricultural fields
Diet: Small mammals such as mice, voles, and shrews
Current Range: Worldwide