Barn Owl relaxed at Dusk

Overview of the UK Barn Owl

The Barn Owl (Tyto alba) is a distinctive UK species, recognised for its ghostly appearance, silent flight, and heart-shaped facial disc.

Habitat and Hunting

Barn Owls are primarily nocturnal, hunting along field margins, grasslands, mixed farmland, and open meadows. Their diet consists mainly of small mammals like voles, mice, and shrews. While dawn and dusk are preferred, they may hunt during the day to feed owlets or after harsh weather prevents night hunting.

Nesting and Adaptation

Barn Owls nest in quiet, undisturbed locations such as old barns, buildings, and hollow trees. With the loss of traditional sites, artificial Owl Nest Boxes have become essential. Farmers, landowners, and wildlife groups across the UK now provide these nest boxes to support breeding and roosting.

Conservation Efforts

The Barn Owl Centre plays a vital role in UK conservation by providing specially designed nest boxes, supporting monitoring, and educating the public about owl protection.

Population and Protection

Estimates suggest 10,000–12,000 breeding pairs in the UK. Conservation measures, including nest box programs, are essential to maintain and increase these numbers.

Present Threats

• Habitat Loss: Modern farming and urbanisation reduce hunting grounds and nesting sites.
• Road Casualties: Owls are at risk when crossing roads or hunting along verges.
• Rodenticides: Secondary poisoning from poisoned prey is a major threat.
• Weather: Extreme wet conditions can disrupt hunting and survival, especially for young owlets.

Did You Know?

Wild Barn Owls: 1–5 years average, oldest recorded 17 years.
Captive Barn Owls: 20–25 years average; oldest at our Sanctuary lived 34 years.
Note: It is illegal to release captive-bred barn owls into the wild – their survival rate is extremely low.