The barn owl with its heart-shaped face and jet-black eyes
is one of the most striking owl species.
How can you recognize the barn owl?
A body length of 29 to 44 centimeters
Black eyes
Large head with white, heart-shaped face
Golden brown upper parts and often white looking, slightly
dotted underside
Long legs
What does the barn owl eat?
The barn owl hunts at night by flying briefly above the
ground and searching the ground for food. On the menu are mainly rodents (mice
and even rats), but also bats and small birds.
Where does the barn owl live?
The barn owl is an evolutionary success and occurs on all
continents.
How does the barn owl reproduce?
The barn owl builds its nest in church towers, barns and
other buildings. On average, twice a year, the bird lays about 4 to 6 eggs. The
mother guards the nest while the father takes care of the supply of food.
How do you get to see the barn owl?
The barn owl hunts in open areas such as fields and meadows.
It is often heard at night, but not easily seen.
Facts about the barn owl
The barn owl does not like frost because its plumage is not
adapted to it. Many barn owls die in prolonged snow because they are unable to
catch mice and have no fat reserve to survive on.
The Flemish Barn Owl population declined sharply in the
1960s and 1970s, but thanks to initiatives of volunteers (Barn Owl Working
Group) the species recovered.
Once established, the barn owl never changes its habitat
again.
What can you do for the Barn Owl?
The installation of a barn owl box (Barn owl working group)
increases the chances of a breeding case and of success.