Owls don't build nests, preferring to take over abandoned crow or hawk nests or use holes in trees or banks. They may add lining material to existing nests. Owl eggs are rounded, white and undecorated, usually 3-5 in number. Incubation is generally the female's responsibility, while the male hunts and brings food to the female. After the eggs hatch, both female and male feed the young.
Nestlings wear thick white or light gray down.
As much as two weeks may pass between the laying and hatching of the first and last eggs. Young hatched latest will die if the parents cannot find enough food in the area around the nest, as they can't compete with the larger, older nestlings. This natural check balances predator population with food supply and ensures that surviving fledglings are strong. During the day, most owls stay in hollow trees or dark, dense stands of vegetation. Owls generally kill what's easiest to catch or find.