How To Go Owl Spotting

Seen as a symbol of wisdom and knowledge, owls are one of the most incredible birds to see in the wild. Unfortunately, they are also very difficult to find.

One of the factors that make seeing an owl so special is how rarely they are seen. Avid birdwatchers long for the opportunity that can get the unique opportunity to spot one of these mystical birds. Yet even bird spotting professionals have a tough time getting this opportunity.

Are you eager for the opportunity to catch sight of an owl? Here is your guide on how to go owl spotting.

How to Go Owl Spotting

  1. Research Local Owls

Figuring out how to spot an owl starts with doing some research. Before you start looking for owls, you’ll want to know which ones to look for and where and when to find them.

Using the internet or a bird-watching book can make your owling efforts a little bit easier. You’ll learn which owls can be found locally and which habitats you can find them in. You’ll also learn how common or rare they are in different seasons.

  1. Seek Out a Habitat

You may not have to go far for owling, as it is possible to spot an owl in your backyard. A woodsy, well-cultivated, natural-looking yard can be an excellent habitat for an owl to nest. You may even be able to attract them with an owl nesting box from birdinformer.com.

In other cases, you may have more luck searching at your local park or in a nearby tree grove. Just make sure these areas are open to the public and you aren’t trespassing.

  1. Look for Pellets and Whitewash

While this isn’t the most majestic part of owling, looking for owl droppings will make your search much easier. The droppings come as a whitewash, which are streaks of chalky white, or round pellets. If you see those, chances are there is an owl nesting in that tree.

You may not see the owl there at the time, but you’ve made your search easier, as owls often return to the same tree.

  1. Search the Tree Trunks

When you come across a tree with droppings, owl feathers, etc., look up and down the tree trunks until you spot a nest. If there is a nest, chances are an owl is there or will eventually return.

  1. Admire From a Distance

Once you find the owl or owls, watch them from a distance to avoid scaring them. If you really want a closer look, it’s best to do so with a pair of binoculars. You can also see them more closely by zooming in with a camera, which is also a great way to document this moment.

Enjoy watching them, and continue to come back every now and then to check on them. It’s a rare experience to actually see an owl, so make sure you savor the opportunity.

Your Guide to Owl Spotting

How to Go Owl Spotting

This guide to owl spotting should make your owl search a bit simpler. Finding owls takes time and patience, but if you follow these steps your chances will be much higher at spotting an owl. Be diligent and patient, and savor the rare opportunity to see an owl up in person.

For more on nature and wildlife, visit our pets and animals section.