What does the Barred Owl eat?

The Barred Owl's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Carnivore

How it forages

Primarily a nocturnal hunter, but often hunts during the day, especially at dawn and dusk, or on cloudy days. They are opportunistic predators, preying on small mammals (voles, mice, squirrels, rabbits), birds (including other owls), amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates. They hunt from a perch, swooping down silently to capture prey with their powerful talons.

When it feeds

Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk), but frequently seen and heard during daylight hours.

Explore the Barred Owl