Barn Owl

Family

Tytonidae

Scientific Name

Tyto Alba

Basic Animal Group

Birds

Diet

Carnivore

Length

~32-40cm

Weight

~ 400g - 600g

Wingspan

~80-95 cm

Incubation Period

~8-21 days

Clutch

~1-2 clutches/year
~ 4 eggs/clutch

Origin

United States and Central America

Lifespan

~ 5-12 years

Characteristics

small-barn-owl

Fun Facts

  1. The barn owl does not bite or chew its food but swallows it in one large gulp.
  2. Barn owls are unable to digest bones, teeth, nails and feathers of their prey but regurgitate (bring up again to the mouth) them as pellets.
  3. Owlets feed each other in the nest which is quite unusual when compared to other birds.
  4. As opposed to other birds, the feathers of the owl are not water resistant.
  5. Silent flyers due to a fringe along the edge of their wing feathers which eliminates the friction between the feathers and thus makes it easier for them to catch their prey.