Barred Owl Family

While Nest Watching, I have also been watching and hearing a barred owl family living in our 8 acres of mixed woods, with two small ponds. The nest was off our property. So, I could only barely see the large twig structure from the property line. But, once the babes were out of the nest (“branching”), I heard them calling mom or dad for food, day and night! (It is a one note call that is repeated continually till food arrives. It is easy to ID, as it is a soft high pitch and raspy.)

On May 1, I located the source of the sound I was hearing and took the photo of the feather ball babe seen in the first photo.

At that time, I thought there was only one owlet. However, as the months progressed, I realized that I was hearing two youngsters calling. So, I was very happy when I finally saw the twins at dusk, perched on a low tree limb near my house. Their calls were particularly loud and desperate sounding!

On June 9th, I followed the calls for the last time! I have not heard the twins since that day. I was thrilled to see this mature owlet. Its sibling was up higher in the tree, so I could not get a good photo of him or her.

Then, the next day, I happened to see one of the adults, checking me out as I walked in our woods. Fortunately, I had my camera handy. I’ve learned not to leave my house empty handed.

Barred Owl Family

Our nest box was put up a little too late for the first year. I tried really hard to have it ready but I just didn’t finish in time for them to get used to it being in the area. Year 2 was a success!! We were starting to think we’d never get to see them use the nest box, but one day we saw something peeking out! You can see the entire build, story and galleries, here: https://tidehomes.com/melton-team-home-diy-projects/mr-mrs-barred-hootie/

Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Cornell Lab of Ornithology