Are Barn Owls Nocturnal?

Barn owls are part of the Tytonidae family, distinct from other owls (Strigidae). While most owls are nocturnal, not all are, and some exhibit diurnal (active in the day) or crepuscular behaviours (active at dawn and dusk). So, where does the barn owl fall?

Yes is the short answer, Barn Owls are Nocturnal, but they can also be active during the day, especially during the mating season when they may need to hunt for extra food to feed the owlets as they hatch. In times of hunger, for example, due to heavy rain at night or snow covering the ground, limiting their ability to hunt, the barn owl may also be seen hunting during the day for much-needed food.

Understanding what Nocturnal is.

A nocturnal animal is one that is primarily active during the night and rests during the day, which the Barn Owls essentially are. Nocturnality contrasts diurnality (day-active) and crepuscularity (active at dawn and dusk).

Nocturnal animals usually evolve adaptations to avoid predators, exploit nighttime prey, or reduce competition for resources. The Barn Owl has evolved to be a superb nocturnal animal, with its enhanced night vision, acute hearing, and incredibly silent flying enabling it to capture prey such as voles in almost complete darkness.