Barred owls are classified as birds of prey, which means that they eat other small animals for food. Barred owls have certain qualities that allow them to be excellent hunters, especially for small rodents, insects, and birds. They are nocturnal hunters, searching for their food at night when many other forest creatures are rustling about on the ground below. While hunting, owls are able to fly very near to the ground, keeping a close distance from their prey. Their wings are edged by very soft feathers, so they do not make much noise as they patrol the forest looking for a frog or mouse to eat as a midnight snack.
Owls also have powerful eyesight, even at night, which makes it easy to spot their next meal.
People have long regarded owls with respect and curiosity. This may be because of the seemingly thoughtful stares they project as they look upon the world with their enormous eyes. Many farmers are especially fond of these winged hunters because they eat rodents that would otherwise pose a threat to crops. The barred owls came to the Museum eight years ago because they had injuries that made them unable to survive in the wild. All three of the Museum's barred owls have wing injuries that prevent them from being able to fly.