California hosts an impressive variety of owl species, each with distinct features and intriguing behaviors. From the powerful Great Horned Owl to the tiny Elf Owl, these nocturnal birds are vital to local ecosystems. Learning about them deepens our understanding of California’s rich wildlife.
This article highlights 16 owl species found throughout California’s diverse environments, including forests, grasslands, deserts, and urban areas. You’ll find detailed descriptions on how to identify each owl by its appearance, call, and habits, making it easier to recognize them in nature.
Along with clear photos and helpful tips, this guide offers a comprehensive look into the lives of California’s owls. Explore the unique traits and habitats of these mysterious birds that enrich the Golden State’s natural landscape.
Common Owls in Found California
Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus)
The Great Horned Owl is one of the most powerful and widespread owls in North America, including throughout California. It is easily recognized by its prominent ear tufts, piercing yellow eyes, and deep hooting call that echoes through forests and open areas alike. This owl has a mottled gray-brown plumage with a white patch on its throat and a bulky body that gives it a formidable presence. Adults typically measure between 18 to 25 inches in length with a wingspan ranging from 3.3 to 4.8 feet.
Great Horned Owls are nocturnal predators known for their versatility and ferocity. They can take down prey much larger than themselves, including skunks, rabbits, and even other raptors. Their powerful talons can exert a crushing grip, and they rely on silent flight and acute hearing to locate targets in the dark. These owls are often observed perched silently at dusk, scanning for movement before launching into a swift and silent attack.
In California, the Great Horned Owl inhabits a wide variety of environments—dense forests, deserts, suburban areas, grasslands, and even urban parks. They nest in tree cavities, cliffs, or abandoned nests of other large birds. This adaptability allows them to thrive across the entire state, from coastal regions to mountainous terrain and arid inland valleys.
A fascinating fact about this owl is that its eyes are so large they cannot move within the sockets. To compensate, it can rotate its head up to 270 degrees. This extraordinary ability, combined with its stealth and strength, makes the Great Horned Owl a top nocturnal predator and an awe-inspiring figure in California’s ecosystems.
Barn Owl (Tyto alba)
The Barn Owl is one of the most easily recognized owls, thanks to its heart-shaped facial disc and pale, ghostly appearance. Its plumage is a mix of buff and white tones, with a pure white face and underparts and golden-brown feathers dotted with gray on its back. Adults usually measure 12 to 15 inches in length and have an impressive wingspan of about 3.5 feet. Unlike many other owls, the Barn Owl lacks ear tufts.
Silent and stealthy, Barn Owls are exceptional nocturnal hunters that rely on their extraordinary sense of hearing to detect prey. They mainly feed on small mammals like voles, mice, and rats, often swallowing them whole. Their soft feathers enable nearly noiseless flight, allowing them to approach unsuspecting prey with deadly precision. Their eerie, raspy screech is often heard at night near old buildings or open fields.
Barn Owls are widely distributed throughout California and prefer open habitats such as farmlands, grasslands, marshes, and even urban edges. They often nest in barns, silos, tree hollows, or specially placed owl boxes. The Central Valley and coastal agricultural zones provide excellent foraging grounds, where their diet helps keep rodent populations in check.
A fun fact about the Barn Owl is that it can locate prey hidden under snow, grass, or foliage entirely by sound. This makes it one of the most efficient rodent hunters in the animal kingdom. Its ghost-like flight and haunting calls have earned it nicknames like “ghost owl” or “demon owl” in folklore across cultures.
Western Screech-Owl (Megascops kennicottii)
The Western Screech-Owl is a small, compact owl with short ear tufts and yellow eyes that gleam in the dark. Its plumage comes in shades of gray or reddish-brown, heavily streaked and mottled to blend in perfectly with tree bark. This camouflage makes it almost invisible when roosting during the day. Adults grow to about 7 to 10 inches in length, with wingspans around 20 to 24 inches.
This owl is more often heard than seen, emitting a series of trilling or whinnying calls that can echo through woodlands at dusk. Despite its name, it doesn’t actually screech. The Western Screech-Owl feeds on a wide range of prey including insects, small mammals, birds, amphibians, and even fish. It typically hunts from a low perch and uses a rapid pounce to capture its prey.
In California, the Western Screech-Owl inhabits wooded areas, canyon edges, riparian zones, and even residential neighborhoods with mature trees. It is particularly common in oak woodlands, mixed forests, and desert edges. These owls are cavity nesters and often take advantage of abandoned woodpecker holes or nest boxes.
One interesting fact about the Western Screech-Owl is its ability to remain absolutely motionless when threatened, relying entirely on its plumage to hide from predators or human observers. Its quiet presence often goes unnoticed, even in suburban backyards, making it a secretive but widespread resident across the state.
Northern Pygmy-Owl (Glaucidium gnoma)
The Northern Pygmy-Owl is among the smallest owls found in California, measuring just 6 to 7 inches in length with a wingspan of about 15 inches. Despite its tiny size, it has a stocky body and a round head without ear tufts. Its plumage is brownish-gray with white spots on the head and streaked underparts. One of its most distinctive features is the pair of dark “eye spots” on the back of its head, which confuse predators.
Unlike many other owls, the Northern Pygmy-Owl is often active during the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. It is a bold and aggressive hunter, capable of taking down prey its own size or larger, including small birds, mice, and insects. It hunts from a perch and uses quick flight to surprise its prey, often carrying it off to a favorite feeding post.
This owl is commonly found in mountainous and forested regions of California, especially in the Sierra Nevada, coastal ranges, and mixed conifer forests. It prefers elevations between 2,000 and 8,000 feet and favors areas with dense cover for hunting and nesting. Northern Pygmy-Owls nest in tree cavities, often reusing old woodpecker holes.
A fun fact about this little owl is that other birds often mob it due to its fierce predation on songbirds. You might hear a flurry of alarm calls from chickadees or warblers when one is nearby. This behavior helps birdwatchers locate these otherwise elusive owls.
Northern Saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus)
The Northern Saw-whet Owl is a tiny, secretive owl with a big round head and no ear tufts. Its facial disc is pale with a dark border, and its body is covered in soft brown feathers with white spotting on the head and streaked underparts. Adults are just 7 to 8.5 inches long with wingspans of 16 to 19 inches, making them one of the smallest owl species in North America.
This owl gets its name from a repetitive tooting call that sounds like a saw being sharpened. It is strictly nocturnal and notoriously hard to spot, often roosting quietly in dense foliage during the day. The Northern Saw-whet Owl primarily feeds on small rodents like deer mice and voles, capturing them with sharp talons after silently gliding down from a perch.
In California, Northern Saw-whet Owls can be found in dense coniferous and mixed forests, especially in mountainous regions like the Sierra Nevada and northern coastal areas. They favor areas with thick understory for concealment and old trees for nesting. During migration and winter, they may appear at lower elevations and in more diverse habitats.
One fascinating fact about the Northern Saw-whet Owl is that it can enter a state of torpor, lowering its body temperature during cold weather to conserve energy. Despite its tiny size, this owl is a fierce and efficient predator that thrives in quiet, wooded habitats throughout California.
Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia)
The Burrowing Owl is a small, long-legged owl known for its unusual habit of living underground. Adults stand about 7.5 to 10 inches tall with a wingspan of 20 to 24 inches. Unlike most owls, it is active during the day, especially at dawn and dusk. It has a flat, rounded head without ear tufts, bright yellow eyes, and sandy-brown plumage covered in white spots that helps it blend into open grassland environments.
True to its name, the Burrowing Owl nests and roosts in underground burrows—often abandoned by prairie dogs, ground squirrels, or other burrowing animals. It’s a ground-dwelling hunter, preying on insects like beetles and grasshoppers, as well as small mammals, birds, and reptiles. It can often be seen standing on fence posts or the edges of burrows, bobbing its head when curious or alarmed.
In California, the Burrowing Owl is primarily found in open habitats such as grasslands, agricultural fields, and desert plains. It is especially common in the Central Valley and Imperial Valley, but its range has declined due to habitat loss from development. Conservation programs often focus on preserving or restoring burrow systems to support local populations.
A fun fact about this owl is that it mimics the sound of a rattlesnake hiss when threatened inside its burrow, potentially deterring predators. Its charming behaviors and comical expressions make it a favorite among birdwatchers, but its status is considered of special concern in California due to shrinking habitat.
Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus)
The Short-eared Owl is a medium-sized owl with broad wings, a rounded head, and very short, often invisible ear tufts. It measures about 13 to 17 inches long, with a wingspan of 33 to 40 inches. Its plumage is mottled brown and buff, with pale underparts and striking yellow eyes set in a dark facial disk. Its flight is buoyant and moth-like, making it easy to distinguish from other owls.
This owl is a crepuscular and diurnal hunter, meaning it’s active during dawn, dusk, and sometimes broad daylight. It primarily hunts voles and other small mammals, flying low over open fields or marshes while scanning for movement. Short-eared Owls often perch on the ground and nest directly on the soil, camouflaged in grassy depressions.
In California, Short-eared Owls can be found in coastal grasslands, inland marshes, and agricultural fields. They breed in the northeastern part of the state and winter throughout much of California, including the Central Valley, coastal prairies, and wetland reserves. Their population fluctuates depending on prey availability and habitat condition.
An interesting fact is that this species is one of the most widely distributed owls in the world, found on every continent except Antarctica and Australia. Despite its wide range, habitat degradation has caused localized population declines, making it a species of conservation concern in many areas, including California.
Long-eared Owl (Asio otus)
The Long-eared Owl is slender and medium-sized with long, close-set ear tufts that give it a cat-like appearance. Adults measure around 13 to 16 inches in length with a wingspan of about 35 to 39 inches. Their plumage is intricately patterned in shades of brown, buff, and black, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. Their facial disk is orange or buff-colored, with bright yellow eyes.
Primarily nocturnal, Long-eared Owls are secretive and often roost in dense foliage during the day, usually in coniferous trees. They are agile, silent hunters, mainly feeding on small mammals such as voles, mice, and shrews. They fly low and quietly across open areas and have exceptional hearing that aids them in pinpointing prey even in total darkness.
In California, Long-eared Owls prefer riparian woodlands, dense shrublands, and groves near open meadows or grasslands. They are found in both the northern and central parts of the state, particularly where dense vegetation provides roosting cover. During winter, they sometimes form communal roosts, where multiple individuals rest together in a single tree.
A fun fact about this owl is that its long ear tufts aren’t used for hearing—they’re mainly for camouflage and communication. When alarmed, it stretches its body and tufts upright to mimic a tree branch, blending even more effectively into its surroundings. Despite its elusive nature, it remains a treasured find for California birders.
Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis)
The Spotted Owl is a medium-to-large owl with rich brown plumage, round head with no ear tufts, and distinctive white spots on its chest and head. It has dark eyes—unusual among owls—and a pale facial disc outlined with a dark border. Adults are about 18 to 19 inches long with a wingspan of approximately 40 inches. Its soft coloration allows it to disappear into the shaded understory of mature forests.
This owl is strictly nocturnal and very habitat-specific. It hunts flying squirrels, woodrats, and other forest mammals by gliding silently through the trees. It is highly territorial and monogamous, with pairs often returning to the same nesting sites for years. Spotted Owls are less aggressive than many other owl species and are particularly sensitive to environmental changes.
In California, the Spotted Owl is represented by two subspecies: the Northern Spotted Owl (in the northwestern coastal forests) and the California Spotted Owl (found in the Sierra Nevada and southern coastal ranges). Both rely on old-growth forests and multilayered canopies, making them vulnerable to logging and habitat fragmentation. They nest in tree cavities, broken tops, and abandoned hawk nests.
A sobering fact is that Spotted Owl populations are declining, not only due to habitat loss but also because of competition from the invasive Barred Owl. Conservation efforts in California have focused on preserving old-growth forests and reducing the encroachment of their more aggressive relatives.
Barred Owl (Strix varia)
The Barred Owl is a large, stocky owl with a rounded head and no ear tufts. It is named for the horizontal brown and white barring across its chest and the vertical streaks down its belly. Adults range from 17 to 20 inches in length and have a wingspan of 39 to 43 inches. Its dark brown eyes and distinctive hooting call—often phrased as “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all?”—set it apart from other species.
Barred Owls are opportunistic and adaptable hunters, preying on small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and even fish. They hunt at night using their excellent vision and hearing but are also occasionally active at dusk and dawn. Their calls are often heard echoing through forests and swamps, especially during breeding season.
Although native to eastern North America, Barred Owls have expanded westward over the last century and now inhabit parts of northern and central California. They prefer mature forests, wooded wetlands, and riparian corridors. In California, they are most frequently found in the north coast and the Klamath region, where they overlap with the range of the Spotted Owl.
A controversial fact is that Barred Owls have been displacing Spotted Owls in some parts of California due to their more aggressive behavior and broader habitat tolerance. This has prompted intense debate among conservationists, including experimental removals to protect the declining Spotted Owl population. Despite this, the Barred Owl remains an impressive and highly adaptable species.
Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus)
The Snowy Owl is a large, strikingly white owl native to the Arctic tundra but a rare winter visitor to California. Adults are mostly white with varying amounts of black or brown barring, especially females and juveniles, which helps with camouflage in snowy environments. They measure about 20 to 28 inches long with a wingspan of 49 to 59 inches, making them one of the largest owl species. Their bright yellow eyes stand out sharply against their snowy plumage.
Unlike most owls, Snowy Owls are diurnal and often hunt during daylight hours. They primarily feed on lemmings and other small mammals in their native range but will take birds and rodents when they appear in California. Their powerful talons and sharp beak allow them to capture prey efficiently on open ground or frozen lakes.
In California, Snowy Owls are extremely rare and generally appear only during irruptive winters when food scarcity in the Arctic forces them southward. They have been spotted mostly in open coastal areas and large agricultural fields, often drawing great interest from birdwatchers due to their striking appearance and rarity.
An interesting fact about the Snowy Owl is its thick feathers that cover even its legs and feet, insulating it against harsh Arctic cold. Their presence in California is unpredictable but always exciting for local birders hoping to catch a glimpse of this majestic visitor.
Flammulated Owl (Psiloscops flammeolus)
The Flammulated Owl is a small, nocturnal owl known for its subtle but beautiful plumage and distinctive call. Adults measure about 6 to 7 inches in length with a wingspan around 15 inches. Their feathers are mostly grayish-brown with fine streaks, blending perfectly with the bark of coniferous trees. They have a small rounded head without ear tufts and large dark eyes adapted for night vision.
This owl is a quiet hunter that feeds mainly on insects such as moths and beetles. It often hunts on the wing, capturing prey with swift and precise movements. Flammulated Owls prefer to nest in tree cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes, relying on mature forests for both food and shelter.
In California, the Flammulated Owl inhabits montane coniferous forests, especially in the Sierra Nevada and southern Cascade ranges. It is secretive and rarely seen, but its soft, low-pitched whistles are often heard during breeding season. It favors elevations between 3,000 and 9,000 feet, making it a specialist of high-altitude woodland habitats.
A fun fact is that its name, “flammulated,” means “marked with flame-like streaks,” referring to the subtle orange-brown streaks on its feathers. Despite its small size, this owl plays an important role controlling insect populations in California’s mountain forests.
Elf Owl (Micrathene whitneyi)
The Elf Owl is the smallest owl species in North America, measuring only 5 to 6 inches in length with a wingspan of about 9.5 to 10.5 inches. It has a round head with no ear tufts and large dark eyes that give it a curious expression. Its plumage is pale gray-brown with subtle streaks and spots, providing excellent camouflage among desert foliage.
This tiny owl is primarily insectivorous, feeding on moths, crickets, and other insects. It is mostly nocturnal but occasionally active at dusk. Elf Owls nest in old woodpecker cavities in saguaro cacti or desert trees and are known for their vocalizations—a series of soft, squeaky whistles and chirps.
In California, Elf Owls are very rare and restricted to the extreme southern deserts, such as the Colorado Desert and parts of the Sonoran Desert near the border with Arizona and Mexico. Their presence is closely tied to desert riparian zones and cactus forests that provide nesting sites and food.
A fascinating fact about the Elf Owl is that it can fit comfortably inside a human hand, making it the “pocket owl” among bird enthusiasts. Its diminutive size and specialized desert habitat make it a treasured and rare sight in California birding.
Northern Hawk Owl (Surnia ulula)
The Northern Hawk Owl is a medium-sized, diurnal owl known for its long tail, rounded head without ear tufts, and hawk-like appearance. Adults measure 14 to 17 inches in length with a wingspan around 30 to 34 inches. Its plumage is light gray with dark streaks on the chest and spotted wings, offering excellent camouflage in boreal forest habitats.
Unlike many owls, the Northern Hawk Owl hunts during the day, using keen eyesight to spot small mammals and birds from high perches. It is an agile flyer, swooping down quickly to capture prey on the ground or in flight. Its behavior is somewhat hawk-like, hence the name.
This owl is not a regular resident of California but is occasionally recorded as a rare visitor or wanderer, especially during irruptive years when food shortages drive it south from its usual boreal forest ranges in Canada and Alaska. Sightings are mostly in northern California’s higher elevation forests.
A curious fact about the Northern Hawk Owl is that it can tolerate colder climates better than most owls and remains active throughout the day even in harsh winter conditions. Its occasional presence in California excites birders who relish spotting this northern species outside its usual range.
Mexican Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis lucida)
The Mexican Spotted Owl is a subspecies of the Spotted Owl, characterized by its mottled brown and white plumage, round head without ear tufts, and dark eyes. It is slightly smaller than the California Spotted Owl, measuring around 17 to 18 inches in length with a wingspan near 40 inches. Its feathers are finely spotted and streaked, providing effective camouflage in shaded forest understories.
This owl is strictly nocturnal and relies on old-growth and mature forests with dense canopy cover. Its diet consists primarily of small mammals such as woodrats, squirrels, and other rodents, which it hunts silently from perches. It is territorial and tends to occupy large, undisturbed forest patches.
In California, the Mexican Spotted Owl inhabits remote, rugged mountainous regions, including parts of the southern Sierra Nevada and desert mountain ranges. It prefers steep canyons and dense forests where human disturbance is minimal. Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, it is listed as a threatened subspecies.
An important fact is that this owl’s conservation status has helped spur protective measures for critical forest habitats in southern California. Its elusive nature makes it a challenging species to study but a vital indicator of forest ecosystem health.
California Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis occidentalis)
The California Spotted Owl is a subspecies endemic to California and distinct for its rich brown plumage with white spotting and streaking on the chest and back. It has dark eyes and a rounded head without ear tufts. Adults are medium-sized, typically 18 to 20 inches in length with a wingspan around 40 inches. Its soft feathers aid silent flight through dense forests.
This owl is a nocturnal hunter, feeding mainly on woodrats, squirrels, and other small mammals in mature coniferous and mixed oak forests. It nests in natural cavities, broken tree tops, or abandoned nests, showing strong site fidelity year after year. The California Spotted Owl is less aggressive than other owl species and prefers quiet, undisturbed habitats.
Restricted mainly to the Sierra Nevada and parts of the southern coastal ranges, this owl relies heavily on old-growth forests and intact forest canopies. It is considered a sensitive species due to habitat loss from logging, wildfires, and development pressures in California’s mountain regions.
A notable fact is that the California Spotted Owl’s presence serves as an important ecological indicator for forest health and biodiversity. Conservation efforts continue to focus on protecting its remaining habitat to ensure the survival of this unique subspecies endemic to the Golden State.
FAQs About Owls in California
What species of owls are commonly found in California?
California is home to a variety of owl species, including the Great Horned Owl, Barn Owl, Western Screech-Owl, Northern Pygmy-Owl, Burrowing Owl, and several types of Spotted Owls. Some species, like the Snowy Owl and Northern Hawk Owl, are rare visitors during certain seasons.
Are owls active during the day or night in California?
Most owls in California are nocturnal, meaning they are primarily active at night. However, some species like the Burrowing Owl and Short-eared Owl can also be active during the day, especially at dawn and dusk.
Where do owls in California typically live?
Owls inhabit a wide range of habitats across California, from dense forests and woodlands to open grasslands, deserts, and urban areas. Each species has preferred environments; for example, the Spotted Owls favor old-growth forests, while Burrowing Owls prefer open grasslands and deserts.
What do owls in California eat?
Owls are carnivorous predators with diets that vary by species. They commonly eat small mammals such as mice, voles, rabbits, and squirrels, as well as insects, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. Larger owls like the Great Horned Owl can even hunt larger prey including other birds and skunks.
How can I identify different owl species in California?
Identification is usually based on size, plumage color and pattern, ear tuft presence, eye color, vocalizations, and habitat. For example, the Barn Owl has a distinctive heart-shaped facial disc, while the Great Horned Owl has prominent ear tufts and yellow eyes.
Are any owl species in California threatened or endangered?
Yes, some owls like the Spotted Owl subspecies (including the Mexican and California Spotted Owls) are listed as threatened due to habitat loss and competition from invasive species such as the Barred Owl.
Can I attract owls to my backyard in California?
Attracting owls requires providing suitable habitat such as tall trees for nesting and open areas for hunting. Installing owl boxes can also encourage cavity-nesting species like the Western Screech-Owl. Minimizing rodenticide use is important to protect owls’ food sources and health.
What sounds do owls in California make?
Owls produce a variety of calls depending on species, including hoots, screeches, whistles, trills, and toots. For instance, the Great Horned Owl’s hoot is deep and resonant, while the Barn Owl emits a distinctive eerie screech.
Are owls beneficial to the California ecosystem?
Absolutely. Owls play a crucial role in controlling rodent and insect populations, helping maintain ecological balance. Their presence also indicates a healthy environment, especially in forested and natural areas.
What should I do if I find an injured or orphaned owl in California?
If you find an injured or orphaned owl, it’s important to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or local animal control. Avoid handling the owl yourself unless necessary, as they can be stressed or dangerous if frightened.
