In the quiet, often snow-dusted forests and rolling farmlands of Pennsylvania, a nocturnal world thrives, largely unseen by day-walkers. Among its most fascinating inhabitants are the owls, silent hunters of the night, each uniquely adapted to its niche.
While the exact number of owl species consistently calling Pennsylvania home might fluctuate slightly based on migratory patterns and specific environmental conditions, a deep dive into the state's avian landscape reveals a remarkable diversity. Let's explore eight notable owl species that grace the Keystone State, encompassing both resident and migratory visitors.
1. Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) – The Apex Predator
Undoubtedly the most common and recognizable owl in Pennsylvania, the Great Horned Owl is a formidable presence. With its prominent ear tufts and piercing yellow eyes, it’s a master of its domain.
These large owls, often exceeding two feet in height, are year-round residents throughout the state, adapting to a wide range of habitats from dense forests to suburban parks.
Their diet is incredibly varied, including everything from small rodents and rabbits to skunks and even other birds of prey. Their deep, resonant "hoo-hoo-hoo-hoos" are a quintessential sound of the Pennsylvania night.
2. Eastern Screech-Owl (Megascops asio) – The Pint-Sized Sentinel
Despite their diminutive size – often no bigger than a robin – Eastern Screech-Owls are surprisingly fierce predators.
Found in two color morphs, red and gray, they are incredibly well-camouflaged against tree bark, making them difficult to spot even in plain sight. These charming owls are common residents across Pennsylvania, favoring woodlands, orchards, and even well-treed suburban areas.
Their distinctive, descending trill or whinny, often described as a "bouncing ball" call, is a familiar sound on warm evenings. They primarily feast on large insects, small mammals, and birds.
3. Barred Owl (Strix varia) – The "Who Cooks for You?" Caller
The Barred Owl is a truly vocal species, famous for its "Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all?" call that echoes through mature, moist woodlands, particularly near water sources.
These owls are increasingly common residents in Pennsylvania, expanding their range in recent decades. Their large, dark eyes give them a gentle, intelligent appearance.
They primarily hunt small mammals, amphibians, and reptiles, often perching patiently before swooping down on their prey. Their presence is a good indicator of healthy, old-growth forest ecosystems.
4. Northern Saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus) – The Secretive Migrant
One of Pennsylvania's smallest owls, the Northern Saw-whet Owl is a true gem, though notoriously difficult to spot. These owls are largely migratory, breeding in northern forests and moving south through Pennsylvania during the fall and winter. Some individuals may overwinter in the state, particularly in dense conifer stands.
Their distinctive call, a monotonous, tooting whistle that sounds like a saw being sharpened (hence their name), is the best way to detect their presence.
They primarily prey on small rodents and insects. Banding efforts in the state have revealed fascinating insights into their migratory routes and wintering grounds.
5. Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) – The Grassland Hunter
A captivating sight, the Short-eared Owl is a denizen of open country, particularly grasslands, marshes, and agricultural fields. These owls are primarily winter residents and migrants in Pennsylvania, though a small number may breed in suitable habitats in the western and northern parts of the state.
They are often seen hunting during the day, especially at dawn and dusk, flying with a buoyant, moth-like flight. Their "ear" tufts are very small and often not visible.
Their diet consists almost exclusively of voles and other small rodents. The health of Pennsylvania's remaining grassland ecosystems is crucial for the survival of this species.
6. Long-eared Owl (Asio otus) – The Elusive Rooster
Even more secretive than the Short-eared Owl, the Long-eared Owl is a master of camouflage. With their prominent, closely set ear tufts, they can be easily mistaken for tree branches when roosting.
These owls are primarily winter residents and migrants in Pennsylvania, though occasional breeding records exist. They prefer dense conifer stands or thickets for roosting and hunt in nearby open country.
Their call is a series of soft, low hoots, often described as sounding like a blowing into a bottle. Their diet consists mainly of small mammals, particularly voles. Finding a winter roost of Long-eared Owls is a rare and rewarding experience for any birder.
7. Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus) – The Arctic Visitor
A truly majestic and highly anticipated visitor, the Snowy Owl makes irregular irruptions into Pennsylvania during some winters, particularly when lemming populations crash in the Arctic.
These magnificent, large white owls are a sight to behold, often perching on fence posts, hay bales, or even rooftops in open fields. Their arrival generates immense excitement among birdwatchers.
While not a regular resident, their occasional presence highlights Pennsylvania's role as a vital wintering ground for these northern travelers. They primarily prey on small mammals and birds.
8. Barn Owl (Tyto alba) – The Farmer's Friend
With its distinctive heart-shaped face and ghostly white plumage, the Barn Owl is a truly unique species. Unfortunately, their populations have declined significantly in Pennsylvania due to habitat loss and pesticide use.
They are primarily found in open country, particularly farmlands, where they nest in barns, silos, and old buildings. Barn Owls are incredibly efficient rodent predators, making them a valuable ally to farmers.
While once more widespread, they are now considered a species of concern in Pennsylvania, and conservation efforts are underway to protect their remaining populations and suitable nesting sites. Their raspy shrieks and hisses are quite unlike other owl calls.
Where To Find Owls In Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers many fantastic locations for birdwatching, and with patience and a little luck, you can certainly spot owls. Here are three excellent places known for their owl populations.
Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA)
Located on the border of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties, Middle Creek is perhaps best known for its incredible concentrations of Snow Geese and Tundra Swans during migration. However, it's also a prime spot for owls, particularly Short-eared Owls in the winter months (roughly December to March). These owls prefer open grasslands and reclaimed strip mines, and at Middle Creek, you can often see them actively hunting at dawn and dusk over the fields.
There are specific "tour stops" and roadside viewing areas that allow for excellent, often close-up, observations without disturbing the birds. You might even see them interacting with Northern Harriers. While Short-eared Owls are the star here, you may also encounter Great Horned Owls in the more wooded areas.
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
Situated along the Kittatinny Ridge in Kempton, Hawk Mountain is world-renowned for raptor migration. While famous for daytime raptors, its diverse habitats, including dense forests and rocky outcrops, also support resident owl populations. You have a good chance of hearing and, with luck, seeing Great Horned Owls and Barred Owls in the mature woodlands.
The sanctuary's emphasis on conservation and its extensive trail system make it an ideal place for patient birders to explore. Visiting during the late afternoon or early evening, or joining an organized "owl prowl" if offered, can increase your chances.
Presque Isle State Park
Located on a peninsula jutting into Lake Erie near Erie, Presque Isle State Park is a true birding hotspot due to its unique location on the Atlantic Flyway. Its varied habitats, from sandy beaches and dunes to marshes, woodlands, and lagoons, attract a wide array of bird species, including several owls.
In winter, Snowy Owls are irregular but highly anticipated visitors, often seen perched on structures or hummocks in the more open areas, especially near the lake. The park also hosts Short-eared Owls in appropriate grassland habitats and provides habitat for resident Great Horned Owls and Eastern Screech-Owls. Exploring the park's trails and looking for dense conifer stands can be productive for smaller, more secretive species like Northern Saw-whet Owls during migration or winter.
Tips for Owl Spotting
- Timing is key: Most owls are nocturnal or crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk). Your best chances are typically at these times. Snowy Owls are an exception, often active during the day.
- Listen: Learning owl calls is often more effective than trying to spot them visually, especially for species like Eastern Screech-Owls and Barred Owls.
- Look for signs: Scan tree cavities, dense evergreen stands, and old barns for roosting owls. Look for "whitewash" (droppings) and pellets (regurgitated undigested prey remains) at the base of trees, which can indicate an owl's presence.
- Binoculars/Spotting Scope: Essential for good views without disturbing the birds.
- Patience and Stealth: Owls are masters of camouflage. Move slowly and quietly.
- Respect the Birds: Never disturb an owl, especially one on a nest or roosting. Keep your distance, avoid loud noises, and never use flash photography. If an owl seems agitated, back away. Joining an organized "owl prowl" led by experienced naturalists is a great way to learn and increase your chances of seeing owls responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some owls only visit during the winter?
The two owls mentioned earlier only visit Pennsylvania during the winter season as a result of irruption. Irruption occurs when a bird species moves toward the south in large numbers.
Watch this video of Snowy Owl irruption.
This migration phenomenon varies between birds, but owls typically do this because the snow from their original habitat makes prey less accessible. Therefore, they move south where there is a better food supply.
Can I capture owls in Pennsylvania?
No, you can't! Doing so would get you punished because all the owls on this list are protected by the Migratory Birds Treaty Act (MBTA).
Plus, you would be destroying the local ecosystem of Pennsylvania. News shows that species such as the Great Horned Owl and Long Eared Owl are declining in the state. Capturing them will endanger them further!
Why is the owl population in Pennsylvania declining?
One of the reasons is their loss of habitat. Many human activities, such as logging and agriculture, require us to chop down trees, which are the preferred homes of many owls.
Another reason is the lack of food resources, especially during harsh snow because prey is harder to find. Some farms also use insecticides and rodenticides for pest control. Once owls consume insects and rodents sprayed with poison, they become poisoned as well.
Wrapping Up
Pennsylvania's diverse landscapes provide crucial habitat for this fascinating array of owls. From the powerful Great Horned to the elusive Saw-whet, each species plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance. Observing these nocturnal hunters, whether through a chance encounter or a dedicated night-time search, offers a profound connection to the wild heart of the Keystone State, reminding us of the rich biodiversity that thrives even after the sun sets. Protecting their habitats, from mature forests to open grasslands and even old barns, is essential to ensure these silent guardians of the night continue to grace Pennsylvania's skies for generations to come.
