BARKING OWL

The Barking Owl is a medium-sized owl species native to Australia. It is known for its distinctive “barking” call, which sounds more like a dog’s bark than a typical owl hoot.

Barking Owls typically measure around 35 to 45 cm in length.

They have a mottled brown and gray plumage with streaks and spots that provide excellent camouflage in their natural habitat.

Barking Owls can be found throughout various habitats in Australia, including woodlands, forests, open country, and even urban areas. They are most commonly found in areas with a mix of open spaces and trees.

Barking Owls are primarily nocturnal birds, meaning they are most active during the night.

Their diet includes a range of small to medium-sized mammals, birds, insects, and reptiles. They are skilled hunters and are known to catch their prey in flight or pounce on it from a perch.

As mentioned earlier, the Barking Owl gets its name from its unique vocalizations, which sound like a series of barking dog-like calls. These calls are used for communication between individuals and can be heard during the night.

Barking Owls typically breed between August and October in Australia.

They usually nest in tree hollows, using existing hollows or old nests of other birds. They may also nest in tree forks or other sheltered locations. The female typically lays 2 to 3 eggs, and she is responsible for incubating them. The incubation period is around 30 to 40 days. Both parents participate in caring for the eggs and raising the chicks. The young owls leave the nest about 5 to 6 weeks after hatching but continue to rely on their parents for some time.