Owls have long captivated the imagination of nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. Their silent flight, piercing eyes, and enigmatic calls make them some of the most fascinating birds in the world. Colorado, with its diverse habitats ranging from alpine forests to expansive grasslands, is home to a variety of owl species. In this blog, we’ll explore the 11 types of owls you can encounter in the Centennial State. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a casual nature lover, this guide will help you better understand and appreciate these incredible creatures.
1. Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus)
Often referred to as the "tiger of the sky," the Great Horned Owl is one of the most common owls in Colorado. Recognizable by its tufted "horns" and deep hooting call, this nocturnal predator is highly adaptable, thriving in forests, deserts, and even urban areas.
- Size: 18-25 inches tall, wingspan of 36-60 inches
- Diet: Small mammals, birds, and reptiles
- Habitat: Forests, grasslands, and suburban areas
2. Barn Owl (Tyto alba)
With its heart-shaped face and ghostly white plumage, the Barn Owl is both beautiful and mysterious. Known for its silent flight, this owl is a master hunter of rodents.
- Size: 12-15 inches tall, wingspan of 31-37 inches
- Diet: Mice, rats, and voles
- Habitat: Open fields, farmland, and barns
3. Eastern Screech Owl (Megascops asio)
Despite its small size, the Eastern Screech Owl’s trilling call can carry through the night. These owls come in two color morphs: gray and reddish-brown.
- Size: 6-10 inches tall, wingspan of 18-24 inches
- Diet: Insects, small mammals, and birds
- Habitat: Woodlands and suburban parks
4. Northern Pygmy Owl (Glaucidium gnoma)
Don’t let its diminutive size fool you – the Northern Pygmy Owl is a ferocious hunter. Active during the day, it often perches on tree branches to scan for prey.
- Size: 6-7 inches tall, wingspan of 14-16 inches
- Diet: Small birds and rodents
- Habitat: Coniferous forests and wooded canyons
5. Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia)
Unique among owls, the Burrowing Owl lives in underground burrows, often those abandoned by prairie dogs. These diurnal owls are easily recognized by their long legs and expressive eyes.
- Size: 7-10 inches tall, wingspan of 21-24 inches
- Diet: Insects, small mammals, and reptiles
- Habitat: Grasslands and deserts
6. Long-Eared Owl (Asio otus)
Known for its long ear tufts and haunting calls, the Long-Eared Owl is a shy and elusive species. It prefers dense vegetation for roosting but hunts in open areas.
- Size: 13-16 inches tall, wingspan of 35-40 inches
- Diet: Rodents and small mammals
- Habitat: Forest edges and grasslands
7. Short-Eared Owl (Asio flammeus)
Often spotted during the day, the Short-Eared Owl is a ground-nesting species. It’s known for its buoyant flight and distinctive dark eye patches.
- Size: 13-17 inches tall, wingspan of 33-43 inches
- Diet: Mice and voles
- Habitat: Open fields and marshes
8. Northern Saw-Whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus)
This tiny owl, with its round face and bright yellow eyes, is a favorite among birdwatchers. Despite its small size, it’s a stealthy hunter.
- Size: 6-9 inches tall, wingspan of 16-22 inches
- Diet: Small rodents
- Habitat: Coniferous and mixed forests
9. Flammulated Owl (Psiloscops flammeolus)
A migratory species, the Flammulated Owl is one of the smallest owls in Colorado. Its soft, low-pitched calls are often mistaken for insects.
- Size: 6-7 inches tall, wingspan of 14-16 inches
- Diet: Insects
- Habitat: Ponderosa pine forests
10. Western Screech Owl (Megascops kennicottii)
Closely related to the Eastern Screech Owl, the Western Screech Owl is known for its distinctive trill. Its grayish-brown plumage provides excellent camouflage.
- Size: 8-10 inches tall, wingspan of 21-24 inches
- Diet: Insects, rodents, and small birds
- Habitat: Woodlands and desert canyons
11. Boreal Owl (Aegolius funereus)
The Boreal Owl is a secretive and nocturnal species, often found in high-altitude forests. Its call, a series of soft hoots, is often the only indication of its presence.
- Size: 8-11 inches tall, wingspan of 20-24 inches
- Diet: Small mammals
- Habitat: Coniferous forests
Chart: Quick Comparison of Colorado Owls
| Owl Species | Size (inches) | Wingspan (inches) | Diet | Habitat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Horned Owl | 18-25 | 36-60 | Small mammals, birds | Forests, grasslands |
| Barn Owl | 12-15 | 31-37 | Rodents | Open fields, farmland |
| Eastern Screech Owl | 6-10 | 18-24 | Insects, small birds | Woodlands, parks |
| Northern Pygmy Owl | 6-7 | 14-16 | Small birds, rodents | Coniferous forests |
| Burrowing Owl | 7-10 | 21-24 | Insects, reptiles | Grasslands, deserts |
| Long-Eared Owl | 13-16 | 35-40 | Rodents | Forest edges, grasslands |
| Short-Eared Owl | 13-17 | 33-43 | Mice, voles | Open fields, marshes |
| Northern Saw-Whet Owl | 6-9 | 16-22 | Small rodents | Coniferous forests |
| Flammulated Owl | 6-7 | 14-16 | Insects | Ponderosa pine forests |
| Western Screech Owl | 8-10 | 21-24 | Rodents, small birds | Woodlands, canyons |
| Boreal Owl | 8-11 | 20-24 | Small mammals | Coniferous forests |
FAQs About Owls in Colorado
Q1: When is the best time to spot owls in Colorado?
A: Many owls are nocturnal, so dawn and dusk are prime times for observation. However, species like the Burrowing Owl and Short-Eared Owl can often be seen during the day.
Q2: Are owls protected in Colorado?
A: Yes, owls are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is illegal to harm, capture, or disturb them.
Q3: How can I attract owls to my property?
A: Providing nesting boxes, maintaining native vegetation, and minimizing artificial lighting can help attract owls to your area.
Q4: Do all owls hoot?
A: No, not all owls hoot. For instance, Barn Owls emit screeches, while Eastern Screech Owls produce trilling calls.
Final Thoughts
Owls are more than just symbols of wisdom; they’re vital members of Colorado’s ecosystems. Whether you’re hiking through the Rockies or enjoying a quiet evening in your backyard, keep an eye (and ear) out for these majestic birds. By understanding and appreciating them, we can contribute to their conservation and ensure future generations can experience their wonder.