Owl (General) song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Owl (General), especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Owl vocalizations are highly diverse and species-specific. Songs are primarily used for territorial defense and attracting mates. They can range from deep hoots (e.g., 'Who cooks for you, who cooks for you all' of the Barred Owl) to trilling calls (e.g., Eastern Screech-Owl) or eerie shrieks (e.g., Barn Owl).

Calls

Calls include alarm calls, contact calls between mates, begging calls from young, and aggressive calls. These are often distinct from songs and serve various communication purposes.

When they vocalize

Primarily vocalize at night, especially during the breeding season (late winter to early summer). Some diurnal species call during the day.

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