Species Directory
Eight owl species call western Connecticut home — from year-round residents to rare winter visitors from the Arctic.
Strix varia
Barred Owl
The most vocal owl in Connecticut, recognized by its 'Who cooks for you?' call. Prefers mature forests near water.
Bubo virginianus
Great Horned Owl
Connecticut's largest owl species and a powerful apex predator. Adapts to forests, farmland, and suburban areas.
Megascops asio
Eastern Screech-Owl
A small owl with excellent camouflage. Comes in red and gray morphs and readily uses nest boxes.
Tyto alba
Barn Owl
Connecticut's most threatened owl species. Depends on open grasslands and old barns for nesting.
Aegolius acadicus
Northern Saw-whet Owl
One of the smallest owls in North America. Migrates through Connecticut in autumn and winters in dense conifers.
Asio otus
Long-eared Owl
A secretive, slender owl that roosts in dense evergreens. Occasionally winters in communal roosts in Connecticut.
Asio flammeus
Short-eared Owl
An open-country owl that hunts at dawn and dusk. Found in grasslands and marshes during migration.
Bubo scandiacus
Snowy Owl
An Arctic visitor that appears in Connecticut during irruption years. Favors open fields and coastal areas.