An Official Website of the Commonwealth of Kentucky
Adult Barn OwlPhoto by: KDFWR
Seasonal Occurrence: Year-round resident
Distribution: Statewide, though less common in eastern Kentucky
Preferred Habitat(s): Primarily open areas that include grassland, pasture, hayfield, crop fields, old fields, open marsh, reclaimed strip-mine land, etc.
Nesting Habits: Nests in hollow trees, silos, grain bins, barns, and building crevices. They will also use nest boxes if available.
Note: KDFWR tracks the occurrence of this species. Please report nesting Barn Owls by calling 1-800-858-1549 or by emailing michael.patton@ky.gov. To learn more, please check out our Kentucky’s Barn Owls page.
Adult Barn OwlPhoto by: John MacGregor
Seven young Barn Owls in a nest.Photo by: R.T. Hendricks
Barn Owl in flightPhoto by: Kate Slankard