Strix varia
Barred Owl
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Aves
Order
Strigiformes
Family
Strigidae
Genus
Strix
Species
Strix varia
Colours
Distinguishing features
It has a pale face with dark rings around the eyes, a yellow beak and brown eyes. It is the only typical owl of the eastern United States which has brown eyes; all others have yellow eyes.
The upper parts are mottled gray-brown. The underparts are light with markings; the chest is barred horizontally while the belly is streaked vertically. The legs and feet are covered in feathers up to the talons. The head is round and lacks ear tufts. (Wikipedia)
Size
- Up to 63 cm (Length of specimen)
Wingspan
- Up to 125 cm
Synonyms
Similar taxa
-
Animalia:
Mexican Spotted Owl (species: Strix occidentalis)
Strix occidentalis is similar in appearance to Strix varia but has cross-shaped markings on the underparts, whereas Strix varia is alternately barred on the breast and streaked on the belly. Strix varia are larger and grayer than Strix occidentalis.
Distribution
Distribution and habitat preferences
Breeding habitats are dense woods across Canada, the United States, and south to Mexico. (Wikipedia)
Audio recordings
Recorded at Orlando Wetlands, Christmas, Orange County, Florida in United States.
© Paul Marvin
(source)
