There are 12 species in this group. Barn owls are one of the most widely distributed owl species, inhabiting woodlands, farmlands and savannas on every continent, except Antarctica. Habitat Barn owls prefer warm climates with mild winters. They often make their homes in buildings, especially barns, near ample supplies of rodents and other small prey. They also nest in tree cavities or in rock cavities.
Barn owls have long wings and long, lightly-feathered legs.
These owls are nocturnal hunters and are equipped with eyes that have extra light-sensitive rods to enhance night vision. They also have extremely acute hearing. Asymmetrical ears allow the bird to use triangulation to locate its prey. Downy feathers and ridged primary feathers muffle the sound of their flight, enabling them to swoop silently down upon unsuspecting prey. Although they have lived over 20 years in captivity, it is unusual for one to live to be 10 years in the wild.