When you think of Arizona, images of striking desert landscapes and diverse wildlife may come to mind. But did you know that this southwestern state is home to a remarkable variety of owl species?
With 13 out of the 19 owl species in North America residing here, Arizona is a haven for these iconic birds of prey, each showcasing unique features that set them apart.
13 Owls In Arizona with ID & Images:
1. Long-eared Owl: Masters of Camouflage
Long-eared Owls are masters of camouflage, with their mottled brown and buff plumage allowing them to blend seamlessly with their surroundings. With a length of around 13 to 16 inches and a wingspan of 35 to 39 inches, these owls are well-adapted to forested environments. Despite their large ear tufts, they rely more on their keen hearing than their actual ear size.
- Length: 13.8 – 15.8 in (35 – 40 cm)
- Weight: 7.8 – 15.3 oz (220 – 435 g)
- Wingspan: 35.4 – 39.4 in (90 – 100 cm)
2. Great Horned Owl: A Majestic Presence
The Great Horned Owl is a true symbol of awe-inspiring magnificence. With an impressive length of up to two feet, a weight ranging from 2 to 5.5 pounds, and a wingspan spanning up to 5.5 feet, this owl species commands attention. Its large size and distinctive ear tufts give it a regal appearance, while its hooting calls resonate through the night.
- Length: 18.1 – 24.8 in (46 – 63 cm)
- Weight: 32.1 – 88.2 oz (910 – 2500 g)
- Wingspan: 39.8 – 57.1 in (101 – 145 cm)
3. Barn Owl: Silent Hunters of the Night
The Barn Owl is known for its ghostly appearance and silent hunting techniques. Its slender body, measuring around 13 to 15 inches in length, and wingspan of 39 to 49 inches, allow it to glide through the air with barely a sound. This stealthy hunter primarily preys on rodents, making it an effective natural pest control agent.
- Length: 12.6 – 15.8 in (32 – 40 cm)
- Weight: 14.1 – 24.7 oz (400 – 700 g)
- Wingspan: 39.4 – 49.2 in (100 – 125 cm)
4. Short-eared Owl: Grassland Dwellers
Short-eared Owls have a unique preference for grasslands and marshes. Their cryptic plumage helps them hide in plain sight among tall grasses.
These owls measure around 13 to 17 inches in length and have a wingspan of 33 to 43 inches. heir distinctive flight style and diurnal habits make them a treat to observe.
- Length: 13.4 – 16.9 in (34 – 43 cm)
- Weight: 7.3 – 16.8 oz (206 – 475 g)
- Wingspan: 33.5 – 40.5 in (85 – 103 cm)
5. Northern Saw-whet Owl: Tiny but Mighty
Measuring just 7 to 8 inches in length and with a wingspan of 16 to 18 inches, the Northern Saw-whet Owl may be small, but it’s mighty in its hunting abilities.
Named after the distinctive call that resembles a saw being sharpened, this owl is known for its adorable appearance and nocturnal activities.
- Length: 7.1 – 8.3 in (18 – 21 cm)
- Weight: 2.3 – 5.3 oz (65 – 151 g)
- Wingspan: 16.5 – 18.9 in (42 – 48 cm)
6. Western Screech-owl: Adaptable Nocturnal Predator
Western Screech-owls are renowned for their adaptability, thriving in various habitats across the western United States. These owls measure around 8 to 10 inches in length and have a wingspan of 18 to 24 inches. Despite their small size, they’re skilled hunters, preying on insects, small mammals, and birds.
- Length: 7 – 10 in (18 – 25 cm)
- Weight: 5.4 oz (153 gm)
- Wingspan: around 20 in (51 cm)
7. Whiskered Screech-owl: Mysterious and Elusive
The Whiskered Screech-owl remains a somewhat mysterious species due to its elusive nature. With a length of around 6 to 7 inches and a wingspan of 16 to 20 inches, these owls are often found in desert canyons and woodlands. Their distinct facial whiskers add to their unique charm.
- Length: 6.5 – 8 in (17 – 20 cm)
- Weight: around 3 oz (85 g)
- Wingspan: around 17.5 in (44 cm)
8. Mexican Spotted Owl: Protected and Precious
The Mexican Spotted Owl is a protected species, emphasizing the importance of its conservation. Measuring 17 to 19 inches in length and boasting a wingspan of 42 to 49 inches, this owl inhabits dense forests and is known for its distinctively dark eyes. Its unique vocalizations contribute to its allure.
- Length: 16-19 in (40.64 – 48.26 cm)
- Weight: 19.5-23 oz ( 552.8 -652 gm)
- Wingspan:42-45 in ( 106.6 – 114.3 cm)
9. Northern Pygmy Owl: Compact and Cunning
Northern Pygmy Owls are the smallest owl species in North America, measuring a mere 6 to 7 inches in length and possessing a wingspan of 12 to 16 inches. These cunning predators are known for their fierce hunting skills and can take down prey larger than themselves.
- Length: 6.3-7.1 in ( 16 cm – 18 cm)
- Weight: 2.1-2.5 oz ( 59.5 – 70.8 gm)
- Wingspan: 14.5 -16 in (36.8 – 40.6 cm)
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10. Ferruginous Pygmy Owl: Fluffy and Adorable
Fluffy and adorable, the Ferruginous Pygmy Owl measures around 6 to 7 inches in length and has a wingspan of 14 to 16 inches. Found in desert regions, this tiny owl captures hearts with its endearing appearance and vibrant plumage.
- Length: 6.5 -7 in (16.51 – 17.78 cm)
- Weight: 2.2 – 2.7 oz (62.37 – 76.54 gm)
- Wingspan:14.5-16 in (36.83 – 40.64 cm )
11. Flammulated Owl: Singers of the Night
Flammulated Owls are known for their distinctive song, a high-pitched trill that echoes through the night. With a length of around 6 to 7 inches and a wingspan of 16 to 18 inches, these owls are often spotted in coniferous forests, where they feed on insects.
- Length: 5.9 – 6.7 in ( 14.99 – 17.02 cm)
- Weight: 1.5 – 2.2 oz (42.52 – 62.37 gm)
- Wingspan:15.9 – 16.1 in (40.39 – 40.89 cm )
12. Burrowing Owl: Ground Dwellers
The charming Burrowing Owl is aptly named for its unique nesting behavior – using abandoned burrows or digging their own.
These owls measure around 7 to 11 inches in length and have a wingspan of 21 to 24 inches. Their diurnal habits and comical antics make them a favorite among bird enthusiasts.
- Length: 7 – 10 in (18 – 25 cm)
- Weight: 4.9 -7.9 oz (140 – 225 gm)
- Wingspan: 19 – 21 in (48 – 53 cm)
13. Elf Owl: Masters of Camouflage
With a length of around 5 to 6 inches and a wingspan of 13 to 16 inches, the Elf Owl is the smallest owl species in the world.
Found in desert regions, these tiny owls are experts at blending into their surroundings. Their high-pitched calls add a touch of mystery to the nighttime desert symphony.
- Length: 5 – 5.7 in (12.5 – 14.5 cm)
- Weight: around 1.2 to 1.9 oz (35 – 55 gm)
- Wingspan: 10.5 -16.5 in (27 – 42 cm)
Know more about – List of all owl species
FAQs:
Q: How many owl species are found in Arizona?
A: Arizona is home to 13 out of the 19 owl species in North America.
Q: What is the smallest owl species in Arizona?
A: The Elf Owl holds the title of the smallest owl species in the world, measuring around 5 to 6 inches in length.
Q: What is the largest owl species in Arizona?
A: The Great Horned Owl takes the crown for being the largest owl species in Arizona, with a wingspan of up to 5.5 feet.
Q: Why are owls important to the ecosystem?
A: Owls help control rodent populations, which in turn maintains a healthier balance within their habitats.
Q: Are all owl species nocturnal?
A: While many owl species are nocturnal, some, like the Bur
Conclusion:
Owls like the Great Horned Owl and Elf Owl help keep nature balanced. Each owl has special features and sounds. They show us nature’s beauty. So, when you’re in Arizona, listen for their special calls in the wild.
