Within the diverse environments of Idaho, from its majestic mountain ranges to its sweeping grasslands and deep forests, resides an intriguing variety of owls. These nocturnal Idaho birds of prey play a pivotal role in the state’s ecosystems, acting as both predators and prey within their food chains.
The species range from the small but fierce Northern Pygmy Owls to the impressive Great Horned Owls, each exhibiting unique behaviors and adaptations to survive and thrive in their respective habitats.
Idaho Owls
| l Species | Frequency in Idaho | Presence in Idaho | Where to Find in Idaho |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) | High | Year-Round | Throughout the state, especially in woodlands |
| Western Screech-Owl (Megascops kennicottii) | Medium | Year-Round | Primarily in southwestern and central Idaho |
| Northern Pygmy-Owl (Glaucidium gnoma) | Low | Year-Round | Predominantly in Idaho's mountainous regions |
| Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) | Low | Summer | Southwestern Idaho, in open landscapes |
| Northern Saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus) | Medium | Year-Round | Northern and central parts of Idaho |
| Barn Owl (Tyto alba) | High | Year-Round | Statewide, particularly in barns and other abandoned structures |
| Long-eared Owl (Asio otus) | Low | Winter | Mostly in southern Idaho, woodland edges |
| Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) | Medium | Year-Round | Throughout Idaho, primarily in grasslands |
| Boreal Owl (Aegolius funereus) | Low | Year-Round | Idaho Panhandle, in dense coniferous forests |
| Flammulated Owl (Psiloscops flammeolus) | Low | Summer | Mostly in mountainous regions with pine forests |
| Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus) | Very Low | Winter | Northernmost parts of Idaho, open tundra-like areas |
| Barred Owl (Strix varia) | Medium | Year-Round | Northern Idaho, in dense forests |
| Great Gray Owl (Strix nebulosa) | Low | Year-Round | Idaho Panhandle, in old-growth forests |
| Northern Hawk Owl (Surnia ulula) | Very Low | Winter | Northernmost parts of Idaho, boreal forests |
Owl Species Found in Idaho
Where to Spot Idaho’s Owls
Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, Bonners Ferry: This refuge provides habitat for a variety of owls, including the Great Horned Owl, Northern Pygmy Owl, and the occasional Northern Saw-whet Owl. The different ecosystems in the refuge attract a range of species. You can sometimes spot Northern hawk owls here as well.
Boise National Forest, Boise: Covering over 2 million acres, this expansive forest is a haven for numerous owl species. Great Horned Owls, Northern Pygmy Owls, and Flammulated Owls are a few that can be spotted here.
Camas National Wildlife Refuge, Hamer: In the southeastern part of the state, this refuge provides habitat for the Great Horned Owl, Burrowing Owl, and Short-eared Owl. Its mixture of wetlands, sagebrush, and grasslands attract these different species.
Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area, near Boise: This vast area along the Snake River canyon is famous for raptors, including owls. Great Horned Owls, Long-eared Owls, and Burrowing Owls can be seen here.
Sawtooth National Forest, Twin Falls: This national forest’s diverse habitats host Great Horned Owls, Northern Pygmy Owls, and Northern Saw-whet Owls.
| State | Main Owl Watching Sites |
|---|---|
| Idaho Owls | Craters of the Moon National Monument, Sawtooth National Forest |
| Montana Owls | Glacier National Park, Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge |
| Wyoming Owls | Yellowstone National Park, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest |
| Nevada Owls | Great Basin National Park, Ruby Mountains |
| Utah Owls | Bryce Canyon National Park, Fishlake National Forest |
| Oregon Owls | Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, Mount Hood National Forest |
| Washington Owls | Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park |