Tyto alba
In 2020 we discovered a nest of Barn owls in Monte Grande, our largest woodland. It was in a box designed for the Green-winged Macaw and was placed in our woodland to attract this species. Unfortunately for the Macaws, the Barn Owls found it first and inside we found 5 eggs, 2 of which had already hatched. Up until this time we had only heard this species on one occasion so it was quite a surprise to find it breeding at the reserve. In 2023 we have many pairs breeding on our reserve and frequently hear their screeching call.
This species is relatively common in many countries around the world, although in Argentina it has a call that I have never heard in the UK, a little like a tick-tick-tick when it is in flight. It also makes the typical Barn Owl screech and the chicks make a loud hissing call to attract the parents.
The Barn owl is a medium sized owl of around 35cm.It has a heart shaped disc over its face and appears white in flight. It has white underparts and speckled gold and black upperparts.
