Length: 16 to 20 inches | Wingspan: 45 inches | Seasonality: Summer |
ID Keys: Heart-shaped face with dark eyes, lack of ear tufts, white underparts |
Rather unique in
appearance among the owls, South Dakota represents the northern part of the Barn
Owl's range. Barn Owls are among the most widespread of all land-based
birds, and can be found on every continent except Antarctica. Roosting by
day and active by night, the Barn Owl's raspy shrieking call can occasionally be
heard as it flies overhead. Significant populations have recently
been found roosting and raising young in cavities dug into the sides of bluffs
lining the Missouri River near Pierre. Recent winter sightings also
suggest that some Barn Owls may indeed attempt to overwinter in the
state.
Click on the map below for a higher-resolution view |
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South Dakota Status: Rare summer resident in southern portions of South Dakota. Casual in winter. |