BARN OWL

Order: Strigiformes
Family: Tytonidae
Genus: Tyto
Species: alba
Subspecies: schmitzi

Description
This is the only nocturnal bird of prey on the Madeira archipelago and is easy to identify by its outline and strident call. This sub-species is endemic and has a darker colouring. It has a heart-shaped, flattened “face” with dark feathers around the eyes. The lower part of the body is light coloured with dark patches, the wings are rounded and the claws are very strong.

Distribution
On Madeira this bird is commonly found in most parts of the island, generally not very high up. Some specimens of the Barn Owl are found on Porto Santo but there are no confirmed records of nesting taking place on this island.

Habitat
The Barn Owl is found in a variety of habitats, from areas of human settlement, forested areas, agricultural areas, and areas with low vegetation to deep valleys.

Breeding
This bird nests in large holes in rocks, trees, ruins and in buildings. The nesting season varies from April to July, with 4 to 6 completely white eggs being laid in a single clutch. The eggs are incubated by the female alone while the male feeds her regularly.

Madeiran name: Coruja das Torres
Madeira Island resident breeder – not confirmed to Porto Santo
Social: Family groups
Length: 33 – 39 cm
Status: Secure