Barn owls are one of the most beautiful and mysterious animals that can be seen in the night sky.
They have a unique appearance and a fascinating call that makes them a popular choice for bird watchers.
But how much are barn owls? Are they rare, or can you easily purchase one? In this article, we will answer all of your questions about barn owls and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not to add one to your family.
Read on to discover the secrets of these majestic birds.
Table of Contents
How Much Are Barn Owls?
The cost of a barn owl can vary greatly depending on several factors.
Generally, buying one from a breeder will cost anywhere from $400 to $1,000, depending on the breed.
This cost includes the owl itself, as well as any additional items such as a cage and accessories, which can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Alternatively, you may be able to rescue a barn owl for free or for a nominal adoption fee.
The cost of caring for a barn owl can also be quite high.
Their specialized diet requires the purchase of food items such as mice, rats, and crickets.
Other items such as nesting material, perches, and toys can also add up quickly.
Additionally, veterinary care for your barn owl will be necessary, including regular checkups, vaccinations, and the treatment of any illnesses or injuries.
Depending on where you live, you may also need to get a permit or license in order to own a barn owl.
All in all, the cost of owning a barn owl can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Before making a purchase, it is important to take into account all of the associated costs.
Can You Have A Barn Owl As A Pet?
The answer is a definite no: you cannot have a barn owl as a pet. Barn owls are wild birds, and while they may become accustomed to their human caretakers, it is not recommended to keep them in captivity. There are several reasons why this is not a good idea.
Firstly, barn owls are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and therefore it is not legal to keep them in captivity.
Although they may not be considered an endangered species, they are still protected by the law.
Secondly, it can be difficult to provide an appropriate environment for a barn owl.
They need a large open space with plenty of insects for food, and their vocalizations can be quite loud.
Thirdly, barn owls can be difficult to handle due to their sharp talons and beaks.
They are powerful birds and can easily injure an inexperienced handler.
Finally, it is not a good idea to keep wild animals as pets.
Wild animals should be left in their natural habitat so that they can thrive and fulfill their role in the environment.
If you are keen to learn more about barn owls, there are many organizations that offer educational programs and resources to help people understand and appreciate these beautiful birds.
How Rare Is A Barn Owl?
Barn owls are often deemed rare in many areas, but this depends on the region and the habitat they inhabit.
In general, they can be found worldwide, but are less common in certain parts of the globe.
In the United States, they are mainly located in western states, while they are more prevalent in some eastern coast regions.
On the other hand, they are much more widespread in Europe and can be found in almost all countries.
Barn owls usually inhabit open areas such as grasslands and agricultural fields, as well as areas with tall grasses and trees.
During the day, they tend to stay in these areas as they are less exposed to predators.
They are also attracted to areas that are abundant in insects, which are their primary food source.
In conclusion, barn owls are not rare, but can be difficult to spot, due to their solitary nature and nocturnal habits.
They are typically sighted in the evening when they are searching for food.
If you take the time to look around, you might be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of these majestic birds.
Are Owls Expensive Pets?
Owning an owl as a pet can be expensive, depending on the type, its needs, and your budget.
Barn owls, for instance, can cost several thousand dollars from a breeder, while rare species like the Eurasian Eagle Owl can be even pricier.
Age and socialization also affect the price.
In addition to the initial purchase cost, you’ll need to budget for a large, safe cage, specialized food and toys, and plenty of flying space.
All of these costs can add up, making owls a relatively expensive pet to own.
However, if you’re willing to adopt an owl, you can find more affordable options.
Adopting owls from rescue organizations, sanctuaries, and wildlife rehabilitation centers can be much cheaper than buying from a breeder.
At the end of the day, whether or not owls are expensive pets depends on the individual situation.
With the right resources and supplies, owning an owl can be a relatively affordable experience.
Do Owls Make Good Pets?
Do owls make good pets? No, they do not.
While owls may appear majestic and beautiful, they require a level of care that many pet owners are not able to provide.
Owls are highly specialized birds of prey and their diet, habitat, and behaviors are unique to their species and cannot be easily replicated in a residential setting.
Wild owls hunt for their prey, fly long distances, and make their own homes in trees or other natural shelters it would be nearly impossible to provide these needs in a human home.
Moreover, owls are very sensitive to stress, and can become easily agitated or frightened when kept in captivity, leading to health issues.
They are also territorial and can be dangerous when defending their home.
Additionally, owls are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and many state laws, making it illegal in many places to keep them as pets.
In conclusion, while owls may be attractive, they are not good pets.
They require a specialized environment and diet and can be easily stressed.
Plus, it is illegal to keep them in many places, making it highly unethical.
So, the best thing to do is admire owls from a distance and leave them in their natural habitat.
Do Pet Owls Cuddle?
Owls may be seen as majestic creatures that grace the night sky, but their behavior often makes them less than ideal cuddle buddies.
Most birds, including owls, are not very tactile animals and prefer to avoid being handled.
This is due to their solitary nature in the wild where they hunt and live alone.
It is not a behavior that is natural for them.
However, some owners have successfully trained their owls to be comfortable with being handled and cuddled.
This is usually done through positive reinforcement and spending time with the owl to get it used to being touched.
In general, owls are not known for cuddling.
They would rather be admired from a distance.
That doesn’t mean they are not great pets, though.
Owls are smart, can be trained to do tricks, and are relatively easy to care for as long as you understand their needs.
If you are considering getting an owl as a pet, make sure you understand their needs and make sure you are willing to take the time to train them before making any commitments.
Do Owls Like Being Petted?
No, owls do not usually enjoy being petted.
They are wild animals and inherently wary of humans, so physical contact can be a strange and uncomfortable experience for them.
Even if they appear friendly and cuddly, they still have sharp talons and beaks, so they may not be comfortable with being touched.
To get close to an owl, it’s best to consult a professional, as petting them can be dangerous and cause them to become stressed or agitated.
Additionally, there are laws in place to protect owls from harassment or disturbance.
The best way to admire an owl is to observe it from a distance.
Watching an owl in its natural habitat can be a rewarding experience, and it is much safer than trying to pet it.
In conclusion, owls do not typically like to be petted, so it’s best to leave them alone and admire them from afar.
What States Allow Owls As Pets?
Owning a pet owl is not a straightforward process.
In the United States and many other countries, it is illegal to possess wild birds, including owls, due to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
However, some exceptions do exist.
In order to legally own a pet owl in certain states, you must get a permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
To get the permit, you must prove that you have the appropriate housing and expertise to take care of the owl, as well as demonstrate that you are not taking it away from its natural habitat.
Additionally, some species of owls are more difficult to get a permit for than others, as they are more endangered.
Another option is buying a captive-bred owl from a licensed breeder.
This can be easier than obtaining a permit, but it can still be complicated and expensive.
Owls can be challenging to take care of, as they require specific diets and housing.
Moreover, some states have laws that prohibit the ownership of captive-bred owls.
In summary, although it is possible to own a pet owl in some states, it is not a straightforward process.
To do so legally, you must acquire a permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service or buy one from a licensed breeder.
Furthermore, it is essential to make sure you can give the owl the appropriate care before taking on this responsibility.
How Long Do Barn Owls Live As Pets?
Barn owls, native to many parts of the world, make wonderful pets.
They are known for their entertainment and affectionate nature.
Generally, they are characterized by their brownish-gray feathers, bright yellow eyes, and heart-shaped face.
When kept in captivity, the lifespan of a barn owl can range from 5 to 10 years, which is slightly longer than their wild counterparts, who usually only live up to 5 years.
However, with proper care and attention, they can live well beyond 10 years.
Since barn owls are wild animals, they require specialized care and attention.
They need a large, well-ventilated space with plenty of fresh food and water, hiding spots, and a variety of toys and perches.
Regular veterinary care is also important, including check-ups, vaccinations, nutrition, and behavior advice.
If you plan to keep multiple barn owls, it is essential to ensure that they are properly socialized.
In conclusion, barn owls can live up to 10 years in captivity with proper care and attention.
They require a safe and comfortable habitat, as well as regular veterinary care.
If you are considering keeping a barn owl as a pet, it is important to take these precautions.
How Long Do Barn Owls Live?
The lifespan of a barn owl can range from 3-10 years in the wild and up to 16 years in captivity.
The main cause of death is usually predation by other birds, such as hawks and eagles.
Other risks include car collisions, electrocution, and poisoning from rodent control products.
Starvation, dehydration, and diseases like avian malaria can also lead to the death of a barn owl.
It is estimated that only 25-50% of barn owls survive their first year in the wild.
By providing a safe, stable environment and adequate food sources, you can improve the life expectancy of a barn owl and help it to live a long, healthy life.
What Kind Of Owl Can You Have As A Pet?
It is possible to have an owl as a pet, but it is important to remember that they are wild animals and require special care.
The most common type of owl kept as a pet is the Eurasian Eagle Owl, which has a wingspan of up to 6 feet and can weigh up to 10 pounds.
These majestic birds are intelligent and can be taught simple tasks.
However, keeping an owl as a pet comes with certain restrictions.
It is illegal to keep some species of owl in the US due to federal laws.
Even if you find a legal species, they require specific diets, housing, and care.
Additionally, they can be loud and get bored easily, making them difficult to take care of.
Finally, it is important to remember that an owl is still a wild animal.
This means they can be unpredictable and may not show the same level of affection that a domesticated pet would.
If you decide to keep an owl as a pet, make sure to research and provide the best care you can.
Final Thoughts
Barn owls are a beautiful and mysterious species that can provide you with hours of enjoyment.
Whether you are looking to add one to your family or simply want to observe them in their natural habitat, it is important to understand how much they cost and their availability.
We hope this article has given you the information you need to know about barn owls and their pricing, so that you can make the best decision for you and your family.
Now that you are armed with this knowledge, why not take your first step towards making your barn owl dreams come true?