Tytonidae

The Tytonidae family, commonly known as barn owls, comprises several species of nocturnal birds of prey. These owls are characterized by their distinctive heart-shaped facial disks and the absence of ear tufts, which leads some to call them "monkey-faced owls". They typically range from 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16 inches) in length and have dark-colored eyes that appear small relative to their heads.1

Barn owls primarily hunt small rodents like mice and shrews, often in agricultural areas. They build nests in hollow trees, buildings, or old hawk nests. The common barn owl (Tyto alba) has a near-global distribution, absent only from Antarctica and Micronesia. However, recent classifications recognize three distinct species: the western barn owl (T. alba), the eastern barn owl (T. javanica), and the American barn owl (T. furcata). Other species within the Tytonidae family are found in the Old World, with some known as grass owls.1

The family Tytonidae is distinguished by an unnotched sternum and large clavicles fused to it. While owls are generally symbolic of wisdom, the barn owl has also been associated with ill omens and disgrace in some cultures.23