Arkansas, famed for its impressive diversity of landscapes, is a haven teeming with fascinating wildlife. Among them, the owls, nocturnal birds of prey, command a particular allure and intrigue. So prepare to embark on an unforgettable nocturnal journey, discovering the alluring lives of these nocturnal masters in the heart of The Natural State.
Arkansas Owls
| Owl Species | Frequency in Arkansas | Specific Locations in Arkansas |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Saw-Whet Owl | Uncommon | Ozark National Forest |
| Eastern Screech-Owl | Very Common | Hot Springs National Park |
| Great Horned Owl | Common | Lake Fayetteville Park |
| Barred Owl | Common | Mammoth Spring State Park |
| Barn Owl | Rare | Delta Region of Eastern Arkansas |
| Long-Eared Owl | Uncommon | Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge |
| Short-Eared Owl | Uncommon | Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge |
Owl Species Found in Arkansas
Where to Spot Arkansas’s Owls
Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge - Located near Dardanelle, this refuge is home to several owl species including the Great Horned Owl and the Barred Owl. More information can be found.
Ouachita National Forest - Covering 1.8 million acres, this forest offers excellent opportunities to spot Eastern Screech Owls, Barred Owls, and even the elusive Northern Saw-whet Owl. More details can be discovered.
Mammoth Spring State Park - This park in the Ozark region is a great place to spot the Great Horned Owl and Barred Owl. Check out the full details.
Lake Fayetteville - Located in the city of Fayetteville, the lake and its surrounding wooded areas are a great spot to find Eastern Screech Owls. Detailed information can be found.
Hot Springs National Park - This park offers nocturnal guided tours where you have a good chance of seeing Eastern Screech Owls and Barred Owls.
| State | Main Owl Watching Site |
|---|---|
| Missouri Owls | Mark Twain National Forest |
| Louisiana Owls | Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge |
| Mississippi Owls | Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge |
| Tennessee Owls | Great Smoky Mountains National Park |
| Texas Owls | Big Bend National Park |
| Oklahoma Owls | Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge |
FAQS about Types of Owls in Arkansas
When it comes to Owls in Arkansas there are a few owl species you can also see very rarely including the burrowing owl and the snowy owl. Snowy owls and burrowing owls are not widespread owls. To learn about other owls or birds of Prey in Arkansas see our guide.
What is the most common owl in Arkansas?
The most common owl in Arkansas is the Eastern Screech Owl (Megascops). With a range that spans North America, these widespread owls are frequently seen and heard in a variety of habitats across the state, including nest boxes in residential areas. Their mottled brown and dark brown feathers make them a captivating sight.
Is it good or bad to have an owl in your yard?
Having an owl in your yard can be a mixed blessing. Owls, such as the Eastern Screech or the Great Horned Owl, can control populations of small mammals and rodents. However, these fierce predators may also pose a risk to small pets and other bird species, including wild birds.
What kind of owls are in Arkansas?
Arkansas is home to a number of owl species, from the most widespread owls the Eastern Screech and Great Horned Owls, to the less common but equally fascinating Northern Saw-Whet and Short Eared Owls. Other owls, like the Barn Owl with its bright yellow eyes, can also be found, making Arkansas a haven for bird watching.
What owls hoot at night?
Most owls, including the Eastern Screech Owl, Great Horned Owl, and the Short Eared Owl, are known to hoot at night. Their haunting calls echo across their natural habitats, adding an intriguing soundtrack to Arkansas’s nocturnal landscapes.
Do owls eat birds?
Yes, owls do eat birds. As skilled hunters and fierce predators, owls, including those found in Arkansas, often consume a variety of prey, from small mammals and rodents to small and medium-sized bird species. The size and species of the bird prey largely depend on the size of the owl itself. Larger owls, such as the Great Horned Owl, are capable of hunting and eating larger bird species whilst short eared owls hunt differently.