Barred Owl vs Great Grey Owl
Strix varia versus Strix nebulosa
Play a quiz with Barred Owl and Great Grey Owl
Barred Owl
Great Grey Owl
In short
Barred Owls and Great Gray Owls can be distinguished by size and plumage patterns. The Barred Owl is smaller with dark eyes and distinctive horizontal barring on the chest, while the Great Gray Owl is larger with a more massive appearance due to its dense plumage and has a concentric facial pattern.
Identification tips
1. Size: The Great Gray Owl is noticeably larger and bulkier than the Barred Owl. 2. Eyes: Barred Owls have dark eyes, while Great Gray Owls have yellow eyes. 3. Facial Disc: The Great Gray Owl has a distinctive concentric pattern on its facial disc, unlike the Barred Owl. 4. Habitat: Consider the habitat; Great Gray Owls are more likely in open areas near forests, whereas Barred Owls are found in denser woodlands. 5. Vocalization: Listen for the Barred Owl's distinctive call, which can aid in identification.
Size
The Barred Owl is smaller than the Great Gray Owl, which appears more massive due to its dense plumage.
Plumage
Barred Owls have horizontal barring on the chest and dark eyes, whereas Great Gray Owls have a concentric facial pattern and a generally grayer appearance.
Habitat
Barred Owls are found in a variety of wooded habitats, while Great Gray Owls prefer open areas near forests, such as bogs and montane meadows.
Voice
Barred Owls are known for their 'Who cooks for you?' call, while Great Gray Owls are generally less vocal and have a softer call.