Beardsley Park in Bridgeport in Fairfield County, Connecticut — The American Northeast (New England)
Barred Owl
Strix varia
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones, August 6, 2023
1. Barred Owl Marker
Size: 17-20 inches[;] wingspan of 39-43 inches
Weight: 2.5 lbs
Lifespan: 18 years in the wild[;] over 20 years in captivity
Habitat: coniferous forests, swamp and riparian forests
Diet: small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates
Status: Common
Barred owl populations have expanded westward in the last century. The more aggressive barred owl may displace some populations of the endangered spotted owl. Hybrids of the two species are also known.
Fun Facts
The barred owl's hooting sounds like "who-cooks-for-you, who-cooks-for-you-all." This distinctive hooting helps people to identify them without seeing them.
The barred owl has been known to wade in water to catch fish and crayfish.
Some barred owls have pink belly feathers and this may be a result of eating a large amount of crayfish.
Of the New England owls, barreds are one of the most active in daylight hours. Barred owls can often be seen hunting before dark or after dawn.
Erected by Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Environment.
Location. 41°
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Black-Tailed Prairie Dog (a few steps from this marker); Bears - The Sun, the Moon, and the Stars (within shouting distance of this marker); Rare Bears (within shouting distance of this marker); Domestic Cattle (within shouting distance of this marker); American Bison (within shouting distance of this marker); Guinea Hogs (within shouting distance of this marker); White-Tailed Deer (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Dexter Cattle (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Bridgeport.
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones, August 6, 2023
2. Barred Owl Exhibit
Credits. This page was last revised on August 16, 2023. It was originally submitted on August 16, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 45 times since then and 8 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 16, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
