Tag Archives: Barred Owl (Strix varia)

Another Visit From The Owl

February 25, 2025

This evening my friend the Barred Owl (Strix varia) came by for a visit again. They’re solitary creatures so I assume it is the same one that I’ve seen four times since the beginning of the year. There have been other sightings too, over time, though I’m really focused in on this beautiful creature now.

Owls have feathers that allow silent flight. Of the flying birds of the world they are one of the quietest species. Their primary wing feathers are comb-like. This shape enables less turbulence and therefore less sound as the owl flies. This allows the owl to surprise its prey and also enables it to hear and locate its prey as it flies.

I’m going to be paying more attention to what is going on outside my cabin. More sightings of the owl?

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An Owl In The Snow

February 19, 2025

A Barred Owl (Strix varia) showed up as the snow was coming down on this mighty cold morning. It sat there just looking around for perhaps ten minutes before disappearing.

Owls are thought to be nocturnal but that’s not always the case. Barred Owls are often seen during the day in winter. They’re crepuscular, or most active at dawn and dusk.

I enjoy when there is an easy mnemonic for a bird call and this is the case for the Barred Owl. It simply says, “Who cooks for you. Who cooks for you all?”

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