8 Types of Owls in South Carolina (With Photos)

Ever curious about the owls in South Carolina’s varied landscapes? Owls in South Carolina nocturnal birds are experts in stealth. They use their keen hearing and sharp vision to hunt at night. From the grand Great Horned Owl to the hidden Northern Saw-whet Owl, South Carolina boasts nine owl species. Join us as we explore these fascinating birds’ unique traits, homes, and behaviours.

Table of Contents

1. Great Horned Owl

Scientific Name: Bubo virginianus
Size: 18-25 inches (46-64 cm)
Weight: 4.5-5.5 pounds (2-2.5 kg)
Lifespan: 15 years (wild), up to 25+ years (captive)
Diet: Small mammals, birds, reptiles
Call: Deep hoots, like “hoo, hoo-hoo, hoo”

The Great Horned Owl is one of the most iconic birds in South Carolina. With its tufted “horns,” this creature commands attention. Its striking yellow eyes and mottled brown feathers help it blend into various habitats.

These owls are versatile hunters, preying on everything from rodents to larger mammals like rabbits. Their powerful talons deliver a swift and fatal grip, showcasing their strength as predators.

Great Horned Owls are also known for their distinctive hoots, echoing through forests and fields at night. This vocalization can carry for miles, announcing their presence to other wildlife.

Nesting high in trees or using abandoned structures, they create secure homes for raising young owlets. These adaptable birds thrive across diverse environments—from dense woodlands to urban areas—making them a common sight throughout the region’s landscapes.

2. Barred Owl

Scientific Name: Strix varia
Size: About 16-25 inches (40-63 cm)
Weight: 1.5-2.5 pounds (0.7-1.1 kg)
Lifespan: Up to 10 years (wild), over 20 years (captive)
Diet: Small mammals, birds, amphibians, and invertebrates
Call: A distinctive “who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all?”

The Barred Owl is a striking and adaptable bird often found in the woodlands of South Carolina. Its distinct appearance features a round face, dark eyes, and streaked feathers that blend seamlessly into tree bark.

Known for its haunting call, which sounds like “who cooks for you?” this owl adds an eerie yet enchanting atmosphere to forest nights. These creatures are primarily nocturnal but can also be spotted during the day.

Barred Owls thrive in various habitats, including swamps and deciduous forests. They prefer areas near water sources where they hunt small mammals, birds, and even amphibians.

Their presence indicates healthy ecosystems since they play a vital role in controlling rodent populations. Observing these magnificent owls can be a thrilling experience for wildlife enthusiasts venturing through South Carolina’s scenic landscapes.

3. Eastern Screech Owl

Scientific Name: Megascops asio
Size: About 6.3-9.8 inches (16-25 cm)
Weight: 4.0-8.6 ounces (113-244 grams)
Lifespan: Up to 8 years (wild), over 20 years (captive)
Diet: Insects, small mammals, birds, and sometimes fruit
Call: A series of soft, tremulous whistles, often described as “whinnying” sounds.

The Eastern Screech Owl is a small yet captivating bird. Its distinctive call sounds like a mournful whistle or trilled “whooo,” making it easy to recognize at night.

With striking plumage that ranges from grey to reddish-brown, these owls blend seamlessly into their surroundings. Their ability to camouflage helps them evade predators and surprise unsuspecting prey.

These nocturnal hunters primarily feed on insects, small mammals, and birds. They are highly adaptable creatures and can thrive in various habitats, including woodlands, parks, and suburban areas.

Nest cavities are their preference for roosting; they often take advantage of abandoned woodpecker holes. Mating pairs remain together throughout the breeding season but typically do not bond for life.

Eastern Screech Owls have unique personalities. Some exhibit curiosity toward human activities while others prefer solitude in the shadows of trees during the day.

4. Snowy Owl

Scientific Name: Bubo scandiacus
Size: About 20-28 inches (51-71 cm)
Weight: 3.5-6.6 pounds (1.6-3.0 kg)
Lifespan: Up to 10 years (wild), over 25 years (captive)
Diet: Primarily small mammals, especially lemmings, as well as birds and fish.
Call: A series of deep hoots and barking sounds, often described as a “kroo-kroo” or “kak-kak.”

The Snowy Owl is a stunning bird often associated with the Arctic. Its striking white plumage makes it easily recognizable, especially against darker backgrounds.

In South Carolina, these magnificent owls are rare visitors during winter months. They migrate south in search of food when their northern habitats become too harsh.

Snowy Owls primarily prey on small mammals, particularly rodents. Their hunting technique involves sitting silently and waiting for the perfect moment to swoop down.

Known for their bright yellow eyes and large size, they can weigh up to six and a half pounds. These features allow them to navigate effectively in low-light conditions.

Finding one in South Carolina is an extraordinary experience for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. The sighting of a Snowy Owl adds a special touch to the state’s diverse avian population.

5. Northern Saw-whet Owl

Scientific Name: Aegolius acadicus
Size: About 7.1-8.7 inches (18-22 cm)
Weight: 3-8.5 ounces (85-240 grams)
Lifespan: Up to 8 years (wild), can live longer in captivity
Diet: Primarily small mammals (like mice and voles), birds, and insects
Call: A distinctive, high-pitched “toot-toot-toot” that sounds like a saw being sharpened

The Northern Saw-whet Owl is one of the smallest owl species found in South Carolina. Its size often surprises birdwatchers, as this little creature is about eight inches tall.

With its round head and large yellow eyes, this owl has a captivating appearance. Its soft brown feathers are beautifully patterned and provide excellent camouflage among tree bark and foliage.

These nocturnal hunters primarily feed on small mammals like mice and voles. They rely heavily on their keen sense of hearing to locate prey in the darkness.

You might hear their distinctive “toot” calls echoing through the woods during migration seasons. This sound gives them their name; it resembles the sound of a saw being sharpened.

Despite being elusive, spotting a Northern Saw-whet Owl can be an exhilarating experience for nature enthusiasts exploring South Carolina’s rich wildlife.

6. Burrowing Owl

Scientific Name: Athene cunicularia
Size: About 7-10 inches (18-25 cm)
Weight: 5.5-8.5 ounces (155-240 grams)
Lifespan: Up to 9 years (wild), can live longer in captivity
Diet: Insects, small mammals, and some reptiles
Call: A series of low-pitched “coo” sounds, often resembling a soft “coo-coo.”

The Burrowing Owl is a fascinating creature that stands out in South Carolina’s avian landscape. Unlike most owls, these small birds prefer to make their homes underground. They often occupy old burrows dug by rodents or other animals.

With long legs and a distinctively round head, the Burrowing Owl has striking yellow eyes that seem to be always on the lookout. Their plumage is mottled brown and white, providing excellent camouflage against sandy landscapes.

These owls are also quite social compared to their more solitary relatives. You’ll often find them living in small colonies, hunting insects and small mammals together during twilight hours.

Their unique nesting habits make them an essential part of local ecosystems. By controlling pest populations, they play a crucial role in maintaining balance within their habitats in South Carolina.

7. Barn Owl

Scientific Name: Tyto alba
Size: About 12-20 inches (30-50 cm)
Weight: 1.5-2.5 pounds (0.5-1.1 kg)
Lifespan: Up to 4 years (wild), can live over 15 years (captive)
Diet: Primarily small mammals, especially rodents, but also birds and insects.
Call: A distinctive, hissing screech, often described as eerie or ghostly.

The Barn Owl is a striking bird known for its heart-shaped face and silent flight. Its mottled feathers blend beautifully with the countryside, offering perfect camouflage in barns and fields.

These owls primarily hunt small rodents, using their exceptional hearing to detect prey even in complete darkness. Their unique hunting style involves gliding silently before swooping down swiftly to catch unsuspecting meals.

Barn Owls are often associated with myths and folklore, symbolizing wisdom or mystery. Spotting one can be a captivating experience.

They nest in abandoned buildings or tree cavities, making them adaptable to various environments across South Carolina. As they play an essential role in controlling rodent populations, these owls contribute significantly to maintaining ecological balance.

Their haunting call adds an eerie charm to moonlit nights, making encounters with them unforgettable moments for nature enthusiasts.

8. Long-eared Owl

Scientific Name: Asio otus
Size: About 13-17 inches (33-43 cm)
Weight: 5.5-10.5 ounces (155-300 grams)
Lifespan: Up to 15 years (wild), can live longer in captivity
Diet: Primarily small mammals, especially voles and mice, and some birds.
Call: A soft, low “hoo” or “coo” sound, often repeated in a rhythmic pattern.

The Long-eared Owl is a striking bird, easily recognized by its prominent ear tufts and large, amber eyes. With mottled brown and grey plumage, these owls blend seamlessly into their surroundings.

Preferring dense forests or open woodlands, they are often found roosting quietly during the day. Their ability to stay hidden makes them elusive for many birdwatchers.

When night falls, the Long-eared Owl comes alive. Its diet mainly consists of small mammals and birds, which it hunts with remarkable stealth. The owl’s soft flight allows it to approach prey without being detected.

Listening closely reveals their distinctive calls—a series of deep hoots that echo through the night air. Observing these owls in South Carolina can be a thrilling experience for nature enthusiasts seeking adventure in local wildlife.

Field Marks and Calls

To identify owls in South Carolina, focus on their looks and sounds. Key field marks include:

Size and shape: The Great Horned Owl is big and has “ear” tufts, while the Eastern Screech Owl is smaller and more rounded.
Coloration and patterns – The Barred Owl has bars on its feathers. The Barn Owl has a white face and underparts.
Facial features – Owls have special facial discs for hearing. These discs help us tell them apart.
Vocalizations – Owls make unique sounds. The Great Horned Owl hoots deep, while the Northern Saw-whet Owl whistles high.

Best Locations for Owl Watching

South Carolina has great places to observe owls. Some top spots are:

Santee National Wildlife Refuge
Francis Marion National Forest
Congaree National Park
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge
Clemson Experimental Forest

These places have different habitats that support many owl species. From open spaces to dense forests, they’re perfect for seeing owls in South Carolina.

Conclusion

Owls in South Carolina present a fascinating glimpse into the world of nocturnal wildlife. With their unique calls, stunning plumage, and varied habitats, these birds capture the interest of both casual observers and avid birdwatchers alike.

Each species plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. From the majestic Great Horned Owl to the elusive Northern Saw-whet Owl, every type brings its own charm and character to South Carolina’s landscapes.

Whether you’re hiking through forests or wandering along coastal wetlands, keep an eye out for these remarkable creatures. Their presence enriches our environment and reminds us of nature’s wonders that thrive ju.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What kind of owl lives in SC?

Common owls in South Carolina include the Eastern Screech Owl, Barred Owl, Great Horned Owl, and Barn Owl.

Q2. What time of year are owls most active?

Owls are most active at night year-round but may be more vocal during the breeding season, typically from late winter to early spring.

Q3. Where are you most likely to see an owl?

You’ll most likely see owls in wooded areas, near wetlands, or open fields, especially at dusk or dawn.

Q4. Where are owls most commonly found?

Owls are commonly found in forests, grasslands, wetlands, and even urban areas, as long as sufficient cover and food is available.