From the expansive Great Plains to the thick forests of eastern Oklahoma, a diverse collection of owl species have found a home. The owls of Oklahoma range in size and behaviors, from the diminutive Eastern Screech-Owls to the formidable Great Horned Owls, each showcasing unique adaptations to their specific habitats.
Oklahoma’s Owls
| Owl Species | Frequency in Oklahoma | Specific Locations in Oklahoma |
|---|---|---|
| Great Horned Owl | Common | Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge |
| Eastern Screech Owl | Common | Robbers Cave State Park |
| Barred Owl | Common | Ouachita National Forest |
| Long-eared Owl | Less Common | Black Mesa State Park |
| Barn Owl | Common | Tallgrass Prairie Preserve |
| Short-eared Owl | Less Common | Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge |
| Snowy Owl | Rare | Great Salt Plains State Park |
| Burrowing Owl | Common | Alabaster Caverns State Park |
| Northern Saw-whet Owl | Rare | Beavers Bend State Park |
Owl Species Found in Oklahoma
Where to Spot Oklahoma’s Owls
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Indiahoma: This area is known for its varied birdlife. Great Horned Owls, Barn Owls, and Eastern Screech Owls are commonly spotted here.
Oxley Nature Center, Tulsa: This urban nature reserve is home to a variety of owl species, including Barred Owls, Great Horned Owls, and Eastern Screech Owls.
Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, Vian: This refuge is an excellent birdwatching spot, hosting Great Horned Owls, Barred Owls, and occasionally Short-eared Owls.
Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge, Jet: This unique habitat provides homes to Barn Owls, Great Horned Owls, and occasionally Snowy Owls in winter.
Black Mesa State Park & Nature Preserve, Kenton: This area, particularly its woodlands, is a good spot to see Great Horned Owls and Western Screech Owls.
| State | Main Owl Watching Sites |
|---|---|
| Texas Owls | Big Bend National Park, Rio Grande Valley |
| New Mexico Owls | Gila National Forest, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge |
| Colorado Owls | Rocky Mountain National Park, Comanche National Grassland |
| Kansas Owls | Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve |
| Missouri Owls | Mark Twain National Forest, Mingo National Wildlife Refuge |
| Arkansas Owls | Hot Springs National Park, Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge |