© Darren Taylor
© Rogério Rodrigues
© Ivan V
© Rick Bowers
+ 5
© Alan Van Norman
© Marco Valentini
(Sao Tome) © Joachim Bertrands | Ornis Birding Expeditions
© Retief Williams

Western Barn Owl Tyto alba

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Identification

POWERED BY MERLIN

Medium-sized owl with a heart-shaped facial disc and deep dark eyes; in parts of its range the only Tyto owl present, but compare with larger and darker-winged African Grass-Owl where overlap occurs. Varies across a wide range, but always note white-and-black speckling on the upperparts, beautiful gray-and-tawny wings, and large round head. Color of the facial disc and underparts varies from pure white to rusty orange. Hunts in open areas by night, foraging with a slow and buoyant flight. Roosts in old buildings, tree hollows, caves, and nest boxes by day. Gives a bone-chilling, rising shriek, as well as shorter rasping calls.

POWERED BY MERLIN