Barred Owl

(Strix varia)

Arrived at Lakeside Nature Center on April 3, 1995.

This male barred owl was the youngest of four owlets whose nest was destroyed during a tree-trimming operation.  The older, stronger siblings pushed this owl away from food sources.  It was weak and underweight and only half the size of the other owlets.  Later, he was diagnosed with a cataract in his left eye, which could have resulted from malnutrition at an early developmental state.  Because it took so long to rehabilitate this bird, it became imprinted and socialized with people.  He can not survive on his own and will live his life at Lakeside Nature Center.

Natural history notes.

• Barred owls are found in swamps, river bottoms and woodlands across Missouri.  There are several pairs nesting in Swope Park.
• Its call sounds like the phrase "Who cooks for you?  Who cooks for yoooou all?"

Check out this owl's picture gallery.

For more information on barred owls, check out the Critter Corner entry.