The Barn Owl (Tyto alba) is one of the most widespread of all owls. Versatility in the use of nest sites and in selection of prey, strong powers of flight, and an ability to use human-modified habitats undoubtedly are significant factors in the large geographic range of this species.Despite being common in some areas and often nesting close to human habitations, the secretive, nocturnal activity of Barn Owls cause to be them inconspicuous to most people. But, due to modern technology, the hidden lives of these owls can now be viewed without causing any disturbance to them!
The interesting, seldom viewed behaviors of these owls can be viewed through several cameras that have been set up in nesting boxes.
At this site, the pair of owls are in the mating stage and have not yet laid any eggs:
BarnOwls Italy,Texas
At this site, the pair have 7 eggs that are just in the hatching stage; so far two of the seven eggs have hatched. The streaming video has sound so you will hear a lot of crying hatchlings!
BarnOwls Benecia, California
Young owls fledge the nest at 8-10 weeks old, so there is plenty of time to watch these chicks grow!
References:
Marti, C. D., A. F. Poole and L. R. Bevier (2005). Barn Owl (Tyto alba). The Birds of
