They do not build nests, although castings may form a base for the eggs. Incubation takes about 33 days. After the eggs hatch, both parents feed the young. Nestling barn owls can eat their weight in food every night. Young leave the nest at 9-12 weeks, after flight feathers develop.
Barn owls hunt open fields, flying low over the ground in search of prey.
Other studies have confimmed mice and shrews as this owl's main prey items. Small birds, insects, flying squirrels and rabbits occasionally are taken. Females are slightly larger than males. These owls hoot to stake out territory and as part of the species' mating activity, which in Pennsylvania takes place in December or early January. Great horned owls are believed to mate for life.