Owls in Maryland: a Guide to Species, Identification & More (2024)

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Maryland is home to a variety of owl species, each with unique characteristics and behaviors. The Great Horned Owl, for instance, is a bulky bird with prominent ear tufts, commonly found across North America, including Maryland. Snowy Owls, on the other hand, are majestic visitors with striking white plumage, occasionally venturing as far south as Maryland. Barn Owls, with their pale, moth-like appearance, maintain a small year-round population in the state. The state also hosts Barred Owls, which prefer deciduous and coniferous forests and woodlands.

To learn more about these fascinating birds, keep reading.

Maryland Owl Species: a Detailed Look

Maryland is home to a diverse range of owl species, from the majestic Great Horned Owl to the tiny Northern Saw-whet Owl. Each species has its own unique characteristics, from distinctive calls and markings to fascinating behaviors and adaptations.

In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the different owl species found in Maryland, exploring their identification features, habitats, and unique traits that make each one special.

Northern Saw-whet Owl

Meet the Northern Saw-whet Owl, the smallest owl in the U.S.! This tiny bird of prey is a year-round resident in Maryland’s mountainous forests. With its distinctive "too-too-too" call and rust-colored back, it’s a sight to behold. But don’t let its small size fool you – it’s a fierce hunter, preying on deer mice and other small mammals.

Here are some fascinating facts about the Northern Saw-whet Owl:

• It’s one of the smallest owl species in the world, weighing in at just 2.5 oz!
• Its ventral side of wings shows a neon pink color under UV light – a unique feature that’s sure to wow!
• Saw-whet Owls are monogamous, with pairs forming during breeding season and staying together for several years.
• They’re cavity-nesting birds, often using abandoned woodpecker holes or nest boxes to raise their young.
• Despite their small size, Saw-whet Owls are fierce defenders of their territory, chasing away larger owls and predators with their loud, shrill calls.

Great Horned Owl

The Great Horned Owl is a bulky bird with prominent ear tufts and a black beak. Its plumage is mottled gray and brown, with a rufous or gray face. This owl is a common sight across Maryland and the rest of North America, adapting to various habitats, from forests to urban areas.

Its distinctive call is a low, gruff, “hooo, hoo hoo hoo hoooo”.

Snowy Owl

The Snowy Owl is a majestic visitor to Maryland, boasting a hefty average weight of 3-5 pounds and striking white plumage. This owl species is a fierce defender of its territory, and its dense plumage helps it withstand frigid temperatures. Here are some key facts about this species:

1. Conservation Status: The Snowy Owl population has declined due to various factors, including illegal hunting, vehicle collisions, and the impacts of climate change.
2. Migration Patterns: While they don’t live in the U.S. year-round, Snowy Owls migrate to northern states during the winter. They can be spotted as far south as Washington and Maine, and even Florida during years with limited prey.
3. Diet: Snowy Owls primarily hunt during the day, taking advantage of their excellent daytime vision. They feed on small mammals, rodents, reptiles, and amphibians.
4. Adaptations: With a hoarse voice, these owls have a unique call: a rhythmic "krooh-krooh-krooh-krooh." They’re also quite large, with adults measuring roughly 28 inches long and boasting a 57-inch wingspan.

Short-eared Owl

The Short-eared Owl is a tawny-brown mottled owl commonly seen during daylight hours. Unlike most owls, it builds its own nest on the ground and has a unique defense mechanism: pooping on its eggs to deter predators. Its diet consists mainly of voles, but it also preys on small mammals, rodents, reptiles, and amphibians.

This owl species is a summer resident in Maryland, but you’re more likely to spot them during winter. They favor open country habitats like grasslands, marshes, and farmland for hunting and nesting.

Listen for their distinctive sharp "waowk-waowk-waowk" calls and "eeee-yerp" cries during mating season.

Barred Owl

Now, let’s talk about the Barred Owl, a real master of disguise. With its distinctive hooting calls and love for forest homes, this owl is a permanent resident in most forested areas of Maryland. Here are some key facts about this fascinating species:

• Identification: Barred Owls are known for their deep brown eyes and gentle round faces. Their feathers are red-brown with white horizontal stripes or bars, making them experts at camouflage.
• Habitat: These owls prefer to make their homes in deciduous and coniferous forests and woodlands, often spotted on forest edges at dusk.
• Diet: These birds have a varied appetite, feasting on mice, rats, rabbits, and even insects.
• Nesting: When it comes to finding a place to nest, Barred Owls are opportunists, taking over abandoned nests of raptors and crows, or settling in tree cavities.

Owl Identification Guide: Maryland Edition

So, you want to become an owl whisperer? Or maybe you just want to know what’s whoo-whooing in your backyard. Either way, get ready to become an owl identification pro with this guide.

Northern Saw-whet Owl Identification

The Northern Saw-whet Owl is one of the smallest owl species globally.

It can be found in Maryland’s dense coniferous or mixed hardwood forests near rivers.

It has a small head, a cat-like face, and large yellow eyes.

Its back, breast, and wings are rust-colored, and its head is spotted with distinctive Y-shaped facial markings.

Its call is a shrill "too-too-too.

Great Horned Owl Identification

If you’re lucky enough to spot a Great Horned Owl in Maryland, you’ll know it. These majestic birds are the largest owls in the state. Their distinctive features include prominent ear tufts, gray to red-brown barred plumage, and piercing golden yellow eyes. They’re hard to miss, and you might even catch one rotating its head a full 180 degrees to fix those eyes on you.

Great Horned Owls are highly adaptable, making their homes in forested, rural, and even urban areas across the state. They’re known for their impressive hunting skills, sometimes even targeting other birds of prey. So, whether you’re exploring the woods or strolling through the city, keep an ear out for the distinctive hooting calls of these powerful raptors.

Snowy Owl Identification

If you’re lucky enough to spot a snowy owl in Maryland, you’re in for a treat! These majestic birds are visitors from the tundra, boasting some distinctive features that make them stand out from the rest of Maryland’s owl population. Here’s a quick guide to help you identify them:

• Snowy Owl Plumage: Snowy owls are known for their striking white plumage. Adults are mostly pure white, while juveniles have brown and black markings over a white base. It’s worth noting that females tend to retain some markings even in adulthood.
• Juvenile vs. Adult: As mentioned, the main difference between juvenile and adult snowy owls is the presence of markings. Juveniles have a mix of brown and black feathers over a white base, giving them a more mottled appearance. As they mature, they gradually lose these markings, with adults boasting a pristine white coat.
• Habitat: Snowy owls are migratory, traveling south from their breeding grounds in northern Canada during the winter. In Maryland, they can usually be spotted in the northern parts of the state, but they may venture as far south as the state’s border in years with limited prey.
• Calls: These owls have a hoarse voice and a distinctive rhythmic call, often described as "krooh-krooh-krooh-krooh." They also make other vocalizations, including cackles, shrieks, hissing, and bill snapping.
• Threats: Snowy owls face several threats, including illegal hunting, vehicle collisions, and the impacts of climate change. Their population has declined due to these factors, making conservation efforts essential for their long-term survival.

Short-eared Owl Identification

Spotting a short-eared owl in Maryland? Here’s what to look for:

• Short ear tufts (sometimes hidden)
• Tawny plumage on the back and wings
• Tan bellies with vertical dark brown streaks
• Small, round faces with pale tan to creamy white facial disks
• Irregular wingbeats during flight

Barred Owl Identification

The Barred Owl is a master of camouflage, so you’ll need to be extra vigilant to spot one.

They’re most commonly seen on forest edges at dusk, peering at you with their deep brown eyes and gentle round faces.

Their red-brown feathers are marked with white horizontal stripes or bars, making them pros at hiding in plain sight.

Keep an ear out for their loud hooting calls, often sounding like they’re asking, "Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all?

Owl Range & Migration Maps: Where to Spot Them

Now that you know about the different owl species and their unique features, let’s explore where you can spot these fascinating birds in Maryland and beyond. We’ll look at range and migration maps, shedding light on the habitats and travel patterns of these nocturnal hunters.

Northern Saw-whet Owl Range and Migration

The Northern Saw-whet Owl is a resident to long-distance migrant. While some stay put year-round, others migrate south or to lower elevations for the winter. They migrate at night, using several known migration routes and can cross large expanses of water. They’re one of the most common owls in forests across northern North America and are highly nocturnal.

• Northern Saw-whet Owls can be found in California, New Mexico, Utah, Colorado, and the Northeast year-round.
• They can also be spotted in other territories during non-breeding times, and it’s not uncommon to see them in the Midwest.
• They migrate relatively early in spring and late in fall.
• They’ve been known to cross the Great Lakes and land in the Atlantic Ocean.

Great Horned Owl Range and Migration

The Great Horned Owl is a true American, native to every state except Hawaii. You can spot these adaptable birds in forests, rural areas, and even cities. Keep an eye out near wooded spots, especially along treelines. They’re Maryland’s night kings, hooting and hunting in every corner of the state.

Snowy Owl Range and Migration

Snowy owls don’t live in the U.S. all year, but they do winter in the northern states. You can spot them anywhere from Washington to Maine. In years when their prey is scarce, they’ve been seen as far south as Florida.

These majestic visitors from the tundra have striking white plumage and horizontal dark stripes. They migrate with the seasons, breeding in northern Canada during the summer.

Short-eared Owl Range and Migration

These tawny-brown mottled owls are commonly found in the northern and northwestern United States year-round. They travel frequently, so you might spot them in almost any state. Here are some key facts about their range and migration:

1. Year-Round Residents: The Short-eared Owl is a permanent fixture in the northern and northwestern parts of the country.
2. Wide-Ranging Travellers: They’re nomadic, so they can turn up almost anywhere.
3. Habitat Preference: They favour open spaces like grasslands, marshes, and farmland for hunting and nesting.
4. Summer Visitor: In Maryland, they’re summer residents, with more sightings during winter.

Barred Owl Range and Migration

The Barred Owl, a master of camouflage, has a range that once included only southeastern Canada and New England. In the 20th century, their population expanded westward, and they can now be found in parts of Minnesota, Nebraska, Kansas, and Oklahoma. They’re extremely territorial, defending their homes with hooting matches.

Barred Owl Habitat Preferences	Barred Owl Population Trends	Barred Owl Threats
Forests, especially deciduous and coniferous woodlands	Expanded westward in the 20th century	None known
Urban and rural areas	Now found in Minnesota, Nebraska, Kansas, and Oklahoma
Forest edges

These owls are permanent residents in most forested areas of Maryland, so keep an ear out for their distinctive "Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all?" hooting calls. They’re most commonly spotted on forest edges at dusk, but their camouflage can make them tricky to spot.

Attract Owls to Your Backyard: a Guide

Want to attract owls to your backyard? Lucky for you, these nocturnal hunters are drawn to yards with the right features.

Install Nesting Boxes

Now, let’s get into the specifics of installing nesting boxes to attract owls to your backyard.

First things first, you’ll want to choose the right size. Nesting boxes come in various sizes, so it’s key to pick one that suits the owl species you’re trying to lure. The dimensions should offer ample space for comfy roosting and egg-laying.

When it comes to materials, wood’s a popular pick. Go for untreated wood to keep things safe for our feathered friends.

Leave Brush and Wood Piles

Creating wildlife shelters and natural cover in your backyard ecosystem is a great way to attract owls. Leaving brush, wood piles, and trimmings undisturbed provides homes for voles, mice, rabbits, and other prey that owls love to hunt. It’s like setting up an all-you-can-eat owl buffet!

Set Up a Bird Feeder and Bird Bath

Attracting owls to your backyard is a hoot—literally! All it takes is setting up a bird feeder and bird bath. This simple setup lures in owls and their tasty treats, like songbirds and squirrels.

Bird feeder types vary, but the key is offering a smorgasbord of snacks to cater to different owl species. Since owls mostly munch on small mammals, go for feeders that attract mice, voles, and rabbits.

As for bird baths, keep it simple. Just make sure it’s shallow enough for owls to bathe and drink without feeling like they’re in the deep end.

Limit Outdoor Activity

To increase your chances of spotting owls in your backyard, limit your outdoor activity during their hunting hours. Owls are most active at dusk and dawn, so try to avoid spending a lot of time in your yard during these times. Here are some additional tips to make your backyard more owl-friendly:

• Owl-friendly lighting: Use soft, warm lighting that won’t disturb their night vision. Avoid bright, flashing lights or motion-sensor lights that might startle them.
• Noise impact: Keep noise levels down, especially during their hunting and roosting times. Owls have excellent hearing, so loud noises can be disruptive.
• Backyard safety: Make sure your backyard is a safe space for owls by keeping pets indoors, especially at night. Cats and dogs can be a threat to owls, so it’s best to keep them separate.
• Predator awareness: Be mindful of potential predators in the area, such as hawks or eagles. Take steps to deter these predators from your backyard to create a safer environment for owls.

Create Perching Spots

Want to lure these majestic birds into your yard?

Create perching spots for them to scope out their prey.

Owls love a good vantage point, so consider installing poles or leaving leafless trees in your backyard.

Think of it as a bird’s-eye view for your feathered friends.

Keep in mind that owls are picky about their perches, so make sure to offer a variety of heights and materials to cater to their preferences.

You might just become the go-to spot for these nocturnal hunters.

Explore More Owl Wonders

Ever wondered what owl species call other states home? Or do you have a story to share about a memorable owl encounter? We’re diving into the world of owls across America, from coast to coast. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, get ready to discover the fascinating world of owls.

All State Owls

Want to know what owl species are found in other states? Check out our complete list of owls found in each state.

Share Your Owl Sightings

Share your owl sightings and stories!

We want to hear about your encounters with these magnificent birds of prey.

Did you spot a Great Horned Owl in your backyard?

Or maybe a rare Snowy Owl on a winter journey south?

Tell us about the owls you’ve seen in Maryland and beyond.

Your experiences help us understand and protect these wondrous creatures.

Common Owls in Maryland

There are several owl species that are commonly spotted in Maryland. Here are some of the most familiar feathered friends you might encounter:

• Barred Owl: This owl is a permanent resident in most forested areas of Maryland. It’s easily recognized by its horizontal stripes on its wings, back, and tail. Barred owls are known for their loud hooting calls, often heard in movies and Halloween tales.
• Eastern Screech-Owl: Found throughout the state, these small owls with ear tufts can be reddish, brown, or mostly gray. They’re masters of disguise, often hidden in dense vegetation. Listen for their high-pitched, descending whinny calls or tremulous, vibrating calls.
• Great Horned Owl: The "king of the night" in Maryland, this bulky owl with ear tufts is a common sight across the state. They’re highly adaptable and can be found in various habitats, from forested areas to urban settings. Great horned owls are known for their distinctive low, gruff hooting calls.

Rare Owls in Maryland

While Maryland is home to several owl species, there are a few rare owls that are less commonly spotted. In this section, we’ll shine a spotlight on these elusive birds, providing insights into their unique characteristics and the challenges they face.

Barn Owl

Barn Owls (Tyto alba) are rare in Maryland. They’re a medium-sized owl, with white or mostly white undersides, and tawny backs marked with black and white spots. Their most distinctive feature is their heart-shaped face, which is sandy-colored with a dark brown edge. Barn Owls have dark eyes and lack ear tufts.

Barn Owls are the most widespread owl species on Earth and the oldest known species dates back 20-25 million years. Their excellent hearing allows them to locate prey under dense foliage or snow, and they even hunt bats.

Conservation efforts in Maryland focus on creating and managing a statewide nest box program, understanding Barn Owl ecology, and increasing public awareness to improve their survivorship.

Long-eared Owl

The Long-eared Owl is a rare sight in Maryland. This medium-sized, slender owl sports long ear tufts, giving it a perpetually surprised look. They’re a secretive bunch, favoring dense foliage for roosting, so keep your eyes peeled.

These owls are social and often live in clusters, sharing roosts with their pals. During mating season, you’ll hear their distinctive call: a low "hoo" repeated several times.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)