8 Types of Owls in Wisconsin
Yes, Wisconsin is home to several species of owls, ranging from the massive great horned owl to the tiny northern saw-whet owl. These mysterious nocturnal predators are a common part of the state's wildlife landscape. This guide covers the kind of owls you will encounter in the Badger State.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 2, 2026.
- 8
- species recorded
- April, May, January
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
8 types of owls recorded in Wisconsin
8 owl species have a verified observation record in Wisconsin across the owl order (Strigiformes), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
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8
Plus 4 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
2,728 verified observations on iNaturalist of owl have been recorded in Wisconsin, most often in April, May, January.
When owl are recorded in Wisconsin
Yes, Wisconsin is home to several species of owls, ranging from the massive great horned owl to the tiny northern saw-whet owl. These mysterious nocturnal predators are a common part of the state's wildlife landscape. This guide covers the kind of owls you will encounter in the Badger State.
What are the most common owl species in Wisconsin?
The great horned owl and the barred owl are the most frequently encountered species throughout the state. Eastern screech-owls are also common in wooded suburban areas. In the winter, you may see snowy owls migrating from the far north to Wisconsin's open fields and coastal areas.
Where are the best places to see owls in Wisconsin?
Look for owls in mature forests and along the edges of open fields. State parks like Devil's Lake and Wyalusing offer excellent viewing opportunities. Conservation areas with plenty of trees and rodents are also prime spots. For barred owls, check areas near water sources and bottomland forests. Check ourWisconsin wildlife guidefor more ideas.
How can you identify different owl types in Wisconsin?
Size and feather patterns are the best clues. Great horned owls have prominent ear tufts and a large, improve build. Barred owls have a round head with no ear tufts and distinct vertical streaks on their belly. Eastern screech-owls are small and can be either gray or reddish-brown. For more identification tips, see ourowl identification guide.
What is the typical behavior of owls in Wisconsin?
Owls are primarily nocturnal hunters with incredible hearing and night vision. They spend their nights searching for rodents, small birds, and insects. They are known for their silent flight, which allows them to sneak up on their prey unnoticed. During the day, they rest in dense foliage or tree cavities, where they are very well camouflaged.
Owl-themed gifts for nature lovers
If you are fascinated by the mysterious nature of the owl, you might enjoy these themed items for your home or as a gift.
Owl Silhouette Ceramic Coffee Mug []() A stylish and functional mug that is perfect for enjoying your morning coffee while thinking about the night's activity. Check Price and Availability
When is the best time for owl watching in Wisconsin?
The best time to hear owls is during the winter months when they are most vocal during their breeding season. February and March are especially active. For sightings, the twilight hours of dawn and dusk are the best times to see them as they begin or end their night's hunting. Look for them perched on branches or fence posts.
Are owls protected by law in Wisconsin?
Yes, all owls in Wisconsin are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which makes it illegal to hunt, capture, or disturb them or their nests. This protection has been vital in helping their populations remain stable and healthy across the state. They are also beneficial to humans as they provide excellent natural pest control.
How can I attract owls to my Wisconsin yard?
Installing an owl nesting box is a great way to provide a home for species like screech-owls or barn owls. Maintaining large, mature trees and providing a pesticide-free environment will also encourage them to visit. Having a healthy population of rodents in nearby fields or woods will provide them with a steady food source.
What do owls eat in Wisconsin?
Owls in Wisconsin have a varied diet depending on the species. Larger owls like the great horned owl eat a wide range of prey, including rabbits, skunks, and other birds. Barred owls primarily eat rodents, frogs, and fish. Eastern screech-owls focus on large insects and small mammals like mice and voles.
Gear and field guides
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common owl species in Wisconsin?+
The great horned owl and the barred owl are the most frequently encountered species throughout the state. Eastern screech-owls are also common in wooded suburban areas. In the winter, you may see snowy owls migrating from the far north to Wisconsin's open fields and coastal areas.
Where are the best places to see owls in Wisconsin?+
Look for owls in mature forests and along the edges of open fields. State parks like Devil's Lake and Wyalusing offer excellent viewing opportunities. Conservation areas with plenty of trees and rodents are also prime spots. For barred owls, check areas near water sources and bottomland forests. Check ourWisconsin wildlife guidefor more ideas.
How can you identify different owl types in Wisconsin?+
Size and feather patterns are the best clues. Great horned owls have prominent ear tufts and a large, improve build. Barred owls have a round head with no ear tufts and distinct vertical streaks on their belly. Eastern screech-owls are small and can be either gray or reddish-brown. For more identification tips, see ourowl identification guide.
What is the typical behavior of owls in Wisconsin?+
Owls are primarily nocturnal hunters with incredible hearing and night vision. They spend their nights searching for rodents, small birds, and insects. They are known for their silent flight, which allows them to sneak up on their prey unnoticed. During the day, they rest in dense foliage or tree cavities, where they are very well camouflaged.
When is the best time for owl watching in Wisconsin?+
The best time to hear owls is during the winter months when they are most vocal during their breeding season. February and March are especially active. For sightings, the twilight hours of dawn and dusk are the best times to see them as they begin or end their night's hunting. Look for them perched on branches or fence posts.
Are owls protected by law in Wisconsin?+
Yes, all owls in Wisconsin are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which makes it illegal to hunt, capture, or disturb them or their nests. This protection has been vital in helping their populations remain stable and healthy across the state. They are also beneficial to humans as they provide excellent natural pest control.
How can I attract owls to my Wisconsin yard?+
Installing an owl nesting box is a great way to provide a home for species like screech-owls or barn owls. Maintaining large, mature trees and providing a pesticide-free environment will also encourage them to visit. Having a healthy population of rodents in nearby fields or woods will provide them with a steady food source.
What do owls eat in Wisconsin?+
Owls in Wisconsin have a varied diet depending on the species. Larger owls like the great horned owl eat a wide range of prey, including rabbits, skunks, and other birds. Barred owls primarily eat rodents, frogs, and fish. Eastern screech-owls focus on large insects and small mammals like mice and voles.
Keep exploring
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