Owls

Barred Owl

Strix varia

A large, round-headed, earless owl with horizontal brown-and-white barring on the breast and vertical streaks below. An expanding invasive species that has recently reached Kodiak's forests.

Where to look

Dense Sitka spruce and mixed forests near Kodiak town; listen for its distinctive 'who cooks for you' call.

Habitat

Dense mixed and coniferous forests.

Diet

Small mammals, birds, frogs, crayfish, and invertebrates.

Natural history note

Barred Owls have expanded dramatically westward across North America and are now threatening native Spotted Owls through hybridization and competition.