Barreds are fairly vocal with a repertoire of barks, hoots, yells, shrieks, moans and groans that penetrate the darkness. Barred owls are big, averaging 21 inches long. The females are larger than the males. Under the fluff of gray-brown feathers, the females weigh just over a pound and the males, just under that amount. Though their size is impressive, barreds are only the fourth largest owls found in Wisconsin.
Barred owls are distinctive in their own right and are easily identified.
Rich, dark brown eyes are their most distinguishing characteristic. The softness in the barred s eyes project a nonthreatening, quiet and retiring demeanor. Don t be fooled. These owls are heavily feathered and look chunky. The absence of ear tufts gives their heads a smooth puffiness.