owls in toronto

[tellin]

Twice in the past week I have seen what appears to be an owl flying between yards with evergreens in two different residential areas in Toronto. Does anyone know anything about this? Are owls on the move within the city at this time of the year?

Thank you.

[Joe]

I'm no expert, but I know of a long-eared owl that was in a tree is someone's front yard last year in south Etobicoke.  It was reported on this site.  I also know of a Barred Owl that was seen at Royal York and Bloor area recently.  So I'm sure they're all over.

Joe

[Ron Luft]

We generally only see most owls here in winter. The Great Horned is about the only and  fairly common owl all year (maybe E.Screech in spr/sum). The rest are occasional winter visitors to GTA especially the Leslie Spit (T.Thompson Pk.), Col.Sam and High Pk. Snowy, L & Sh.Eared, Barred, N.Sawhets may be found within 1 hr. drive of downtown. Rarer are Hawkowl (Stoney Cr., now) Gr.Grey some years.

[Anonymous]

The Eastern Screech and Barred Owls are also common breeding birds in the GTA. More Screech than Barred though.