The Barking Owl is a medium sized owl found throughout Australia. They are easily identified by their loud, repetitive barking call which gave them their name. Barking Owls are opportunistic hunters and prey on a variety of small mammals, birds and reptiles. They are also known to scavenge for food making them versatile predators. Barking Owls build their nests in tree hollows or rocky outcrops, typically laying 2-3 eggs.
Barking Owls are a common sight in many Australian towns and cities and can be easily spotted perched on a power pole or large branch. Despite their range, very little is known about the ecology and behaviour of Barking Owls. This guide provides an overview of the Barking Owl's biology, habitat and diet.
The Barking Owl is a medium-sized owl, measuring between 40 and 50 cm in length. They have a stout body, long tail and broad wings. The plumage of Barking Owls is mostly brown with some white markings on the breast and belly. They have a round head with large eyes and distinctive orange eyebrows.