8 Owls In Pennsylvania – (With pictures & Locations)

As the sun dips below the horizon and the vibrant hues of twilight give way to the deep indigo of night, a symphony of sounds begins to fill the air in the forests of Pennsylvania. Among these, one sound stands out – the haunting hoot of an owl. Pennsylvania, with its diverse landscapes and rich ecosystems, is home to a variety of owl species, each with its unique characteristics and behaviors.

Owls In Pennsylvania

1. Great Horned Owl

The Great Horned Owl, often referred to as the “tiger of the skies,” is a sight to behold in the Pennsylvania wilderness. This large owl, with its piercing yellow eyes and distinctive ear tufts, is one of the most widespread and adaptable birds in North America.

In Pennsylvania, the Great Horned Owl can be found in a variety of habitats, from dense forests to suburban parks. They are known for their powerful hunting skills, preying on a wide range of animals, including rabbits, squirrels, and even other birds. Their deep, resonating hoots can be heard echoing through the night, adding a touch of mystery to their surroundings.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Great Horned Owl is its nesting behavior. Unlike most birds, they don’t build their own nests. Instead, they take over the abandoned nests of other large birds, making them a unique part of Pennsylvania’s wildlife ecosystem.

2. Barn Owl

The Barn Owl, with its heart-shaped face and ghostly pale color, is a beloved resident of Pennsylvania’s rural landscapes. These owls are most commonly found in open country, where they hunt for small mammals like mice and voles.

Barn Owls are known for their silent flight, a characteristic that makes them efficient and deadly hunters. They have a distinctive screeching call, quite unlike the hoots of other owl species. If you’re exploring the Pennsylvania countryside at night, this call might be your first clue to a Barn Owl’s presence.

In Pennsylvania, conservation efforts are underway to protect and increase the Barn Owl population. Nest boxes are being installed in suitable habitats to provide these owls with safe and secure breeding sites.

3. Eastern Screech Owl

The Eastern Screech Owl is a small, yet captivating owl species found in Pennsylvania. Despite their name, these owls don’t actually screech. Instead, they emit a series of whinnies and soft trills that can be heard throughout the night.

Eastern Screech Owls are incredibly adaptable and can be found in a range of habitats, from wooded areas to suburban backyards. They come in two color variations – a reddish-brown phase and a gray phase, both providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Eastern Screech Owl is its ability to “play dead” when threatened. This unique behavior, combined with their charming appearance and distinctive calls, makes them a fascinating subject for birdwatchers in Pennsylvania.

4. Barred Owl

The Barred Owl, with its soulful brown eyes and distinctive hooting call, is a treasured part of Pennsylvania’s avian community. These large owls are named for the horizontal ‘bars’ on their chest.

Barred Owls prefer mature forests with large trees, where they nest in tree cavities. They are known for their diverse diet, which includes small mammals, birds, amphibians, and even invertebrates.

One of the most endearing traits of the Barred Owl is its tendency to respond to human imitations of its calls. This makes them a favorite among bird enthusiasts, who often venture into the Pennsylvania woods hoping for a chance to interact with these engaging creatures.

Each of these owl species contributes to the rich tapestry of Pennsylvania’s wildlife, making the state a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.

5. Snowy Owl

The Snowy Owl, a visitor from the Arctic tundra, is a rare but enchanting sight in Pennsylvania. With its stunning white plumage and piercing yellow eyes, this owl is a symbol of the wild and wintry landscapes it calls home.

Snowy Owls are not permanent residents of Pennsylvania. They are known to venture south during the winter months, especially during years of scarce food availability in their Arctic habitat. These “irruption” years bring them to open fields and airports, where they can be spotted perched on the ground or on low posts.

Despite their serene appearance, Snowy Owls are formidable hunters. They primarily feed on lemmings in the Arctic, but in Pennsylvania, they adapt to hunting local rodents and birds. Their presence adds a touch of Arctic wonder to the Pennsylvania landscape, making every sighting a memorable event.

6. Long-eared Owl

The Long-eared Owl, named for its long ear tufts that resemble mammalian ears, is a secretive resident of Pennsylvania’s forests. These medium-sized owls are known for their cat-like faces and bright yellow eyes.

Long-eared Owls prefer dense stands of trees for roosting during the day, making them somewhat challenging to spot. However, at night, their distinctive hoots can be heard echoing through the woods, signaling their presence.

These owls are expert mouse hunters, using their excellent hearing to locate prey in the dark. Their secretive nature and nocturnal habits make them one of Pennsylvania’s most intriguing owl species, adding an element of mystery to every birdwatching expedition.

7. Short-eared Owl

The Short-eared Owl, with its round head and short ear tufts, is a unique part of Pennsylvania’s bird community. These owls are most commonly found in open habitats like grasslands and marshes, where they hunt for small mammals.

Short-eared Owls are one of the few owl species that are active during the day, especially during the winter months. Their buoyant, moth-like flight is a sight to behold, often described as a graceful dance in the sky.

In Pennsylvania, Short-eared Owls are a species of concern due to habitat loss. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these beautiful birds and their habitats, ensuring that future generations can enjoy their captivating presence.

8. Northern Saw-whet Owl

The Northern Saw-whet Owl, one of the smallest owl species in North America, is a delightful resident of Pennsylvania’s forests. Despite their small size, these owls are full of personality, with their large, round eyes and cat-like calls.

Northern Saw-whet Owls are named for their distinctive call, which sounds similar to a saw being sharpened. They prefer dense forests with thick undergrowth, where they roost during the day and hunt for small rodents at night.

These tiny owls are known for their fierce demeanor, often standing their ground when approached. Their presence adds a touch of charm to the Pennsylvania wilderness, making every encounter a special experience for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Popular Owl Spotting Places In Pennsylvania

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Kempton

Located in Kempton, the Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is a premier destination for birdwatching in Pennsylvania. The sanctuary’s diverse habitats attract a variety of owl species, including the Great Horned Owl and the Eastern Screech Owl. The sanctuary offers guided birdwatching tours and educational programs, making it a great place to learn more about Pennsylvania’s owls.

John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, Philadelphia

The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Its wetlands, meadows, and forests provide ideal habitats for several owl species, including the Barred Owl and the Short-eared Owl. The refuge’s extensive trail system allows visitors to explore these habitats and spot owls in their natural environment.

State Game Lands 106, Berks County

State Game Lands 106 in Berks County is a popular spot for birdwatchers. Its extensive forests and fields attract a variety of owl species, including the Great Horned Owl and the Northern Saw-whet Owl. The area’s quiet, remote setting provides an excellent opportunity for owl spotting, especially during the early morning and late evening hours.

Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area, Lancaster County

The Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area in Lancaster County is a prime location for birdwatching. Its diverse habitats attract several owl species, including the Barn Owl and the Long-eared Owl. The area’s trails and observation points offer excellent opportunities for owl spotting, especially during the winter months when the owls are more active.

Presque Isle State Park, Erie

Presque Isle State Park in Erie is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Its unique peninsula location attracts a variety of bird species, including several types of owls. The park’s diverse habitats, from sandy beaches to marshlands, provide excellent opportunities for spotting owls, especially during the migration seasons.

Nockamixon State Park, Bucks County

Nockamixon State Park in Bucks County is a popular destination for birdwatchers. Its extensive forests and lake provide ideal habitats for several owl species, including the Barred Owl and the Eastern Screech Owl. The park’s quiet, natural setting offers a peaceful environment for owl spotting.

French Creek State Park, Berks County

French Creek State Park in Berks County is a haven for wildlife, including several species of owls. Its extensive forests and wetlands provide ideal habitats for owls, including the Great Horned Owl and the Barred Owl. The park’s trails offer excellent opportunities for owl spotting, especially during the early morning and late evening hours.

Ridley Creek State Park, Delaware County

Ridley Creek State Park in Delaware County is a popular spot for birdwatchers. Its diverse habitats, including mature forests and meadows, attract a variety of owl species. The park’s extensive trail system allows visitors to explore these habitats and spot owls in their natural environment.

Best times and seasons for observing these owls

Owls are primarily nocturnal creatures, which means the best time to spot them is usually around dusk and dawn when they are most active. However, some species, like the Short-eared Owl, can also be active during the day, especially in the winter months.

As for the seasons, winter is often the best time for owl spotting in Pennsylvania. Many owl species, including the Great Horned Owl and the Barred Owl, begin their nesting season in late winter, making them more active and vocal.