Barn Owls by Jeannine Chappell Boxed Notecards (46

The barn owl (Tyto alba) is one of the most widely distributed of all birds, taking top honors in that distinction among owls. Now acknowledged for its role as a predator of rodents, up until the late 20th century this large-winged, long-legged owl was maligned as a portent of evil or death, hunted even by the farmers who reaped the benefits of the barn owl’s prowess. Silent in flight, with a telltale screech serving for a “hoot,” the barn owl has a heart-shaped face that may have helped ende…