The barn owl, often nicknamed the “screech owl”, has one of the most haunting calls in the bird world. Unlike the deep “hoot” associated with other owls, the barn owl emits a high-pitched, eerie scream that cuts through the night. This distinct call helps in identifying barn owls and differentiating them from other owl species.
In this article, we’ll explore the different sounds barn owls make, how they use their calls for communication, and what their vocalizations reveal about their behavior.
How to Identify Barn Owl Sounds
Barn owls are most famous for their piercing screech, but they actually have a variety of vocalizations, each with its own meaning.
Screeching vs. Hooting
- Unlike the classic “hoot” of the tawny owl, barn owls produce a harsh, prolonged screech.
- This screaming call is often used to communicate with their mates or mark territory.
- Barn owls are not related to the screech owl (a different owl species found in the Americas), despite their similar names.
Owl Species in the UK
The barn owl is one of five owl species found in the UK:
- Barn Owl – Recognizable by its white face, golden-buff feathers, and eerie scream.
- Tawny Owl – Known for the deep “twit-twoo” hoot.
- Short-Eared Owl – Prefers open landscapes and has a softer hoot.
- Long-Eared Owl – A secretive owl with a low-pitched call.
- Little Owl – Introduced in the 1800s, with a high-pitched chirp.
Why Are Barn Owls Silent When Hunting?
Despite their loud calls, barn owls are masters of stealth. Their specialized feathers allow them to fly silently while hunting, making them undetectable to prey.
- Their soft-edged feathers absorb sound, reducing noise as they fly.
- Unlike many birds of prey, barn owls rely on hearing more than sight to locate food in complete darkness.
- However, males may sometimes clap their wings together during flight as part of a display to attract a mate.
Different Barn Owl Sounds and Their Meanings
Barn owls communicate using a variety of sounds, depending on the situation.
1. Screeching and High-Pitched Calls
- Used by males to attract a mate.
- Females respond with a higher-pitched tone, especially when demanding food from their partner.
- During the breeding season, their calls become even louder and more intense.
2. Soft “Purring” or Cooing Sounds
- Gentle cooing sounds are used during courtship.
- Males make this sound when inviting females to inspect a potential nesting site.
3. Clacking and Hissing Sounds
- Barn owls clack their beaks as a warning when they feel threatened.
- They produce a loud, 3-4 second hissing noise to scare away intruders or predators.
4. Warning Calls and Territorial Disputes
- When defending their territory, barn owls become highly vocal and aggressive.
- They emit loud screeches and clacks to scare away other owls or intruders.
- Interestingly, during actual combat, barn owls tend to be silent, but they make plenty of noise before and after a fight.
Barn Owl Chicks: How Their Sounds Change Over Time
Barn owl chicks have their own unique vocalizations that evolve as they grow.
- Young chicks produce high-pitched begging calls when demanding food.
- As they get older, their calls become deeper and more varied.
- Listen carefully, and you can track a chick’s growth just by its voice!
Decoding the Barn Owl’s Vocabulary
Although barn owls are best known for their screeching, they actually have a diverse vocal range that conveys different messages.
Quick Guide to Barn Owl Sounds:
| Sound | Meaning |
|---|---|
| High-pitched screech | Territorial call, mate attraction |
| Soft purring or cooing | Courtship and bonding |
| Beak clacking | Warning to threats |
| Hissing | Defensive call against predators |
| Wing clapping | Mating display by males |
| Chick calls | Food begging and growth progression |
Now that you know what each sound means, the next time you hear a barn owl calling at night, you might better understand what they’re saying!
Barn owls are one of the most distinctive-sounding birds, and their eerie calls can send shivers down your spine. However, their vocalizations have clear meanings—whether it’s a mating call, a warning signal, or a soft courtship coo.
Next time you hear a barn owl screeching in the night, take a moment to listen closely. You might just be able to interpret their message!
FAQ’s
Why do barn owls screech?
Barn owls screech to communicate, mark territory, attract mates, and warn predators. Their call is much higher-pitched than other owls.
How can I tell if an owl is a barn owl?
Barn owls have a heart-shaped face, white plumage, and a distinctive screeching call, unlike the deep hoot of a tawny owl.
Do barn owls hoot?
No, barn owls do not hoot. They produce high-pitched screeches, hisses, and clacking sounds instead.
Are barn owls quiet when hunting?
Yes, barn owls are nearly silent hunters due to their specialized feathers, which reduce wing noise.
