Galapagos Barn Owl

Owls of the Galapagos

On quiet Galapagos nights, a soft, soundless flight drifts across the dark sky. Two owl species inhabit these islands — the barn owl (Tyto furcata punctatissima) and the short-eared owl (Asio flammeus galapagoensis). Both are endemic subspecies that play a vital role in maintaining the delicate ecological balance of the archipelago.

The Barn Owl

The Galápagos barn owl is recognized by its cinnamon-speckled plumage, pale underparts, and distinctive heart-shaped facial disc. Its long, feathered legs and broad wings make it a master of silent flight. Mostly nocturnal, the barn owl hunts rats, mice, small birds, and large insects under the cover of darkness, relying on its exceptional hearing and low-light vision to pinpoint even the slightest movement.

Research indicates that nearly 90% of the Galápagos barn owl’s diet consists of invasive rodents, making it an invaluable natural ally for farmers and conservationists. A single owl can catch hundreds of mice each year, and breeding pairs have been observed hunting over 2,000 prey in a season. This natural pest control supports ecological restoration projects and protects native wildlife, including the critically endangered mangrove finch.

Barn owls nest year-round in volcanic crevices, lava tunnels, and tree hollows, producing clutches of three eggs that hatch after about a month. The young fledge 10–12 weeks later. Despite their importance, barn owls face threats from road collisions, secondary poisoning from rodenticides, and cultural misconceptions. Conservation groups are now encouraging the use of nest boxes, slower driving at night, and reduced pesticide use to protect these graceful hunters.

The Short-eared Owl

The Galapagos short-eared owl is smaller and darker than its mainland relatives. Named for the small tufts of feathers near its forehead, it is a versatile hunter found in open lava fields and grasslands. Unlike most owls, it is often active by day — an adaptation to avoid competition with the Galapagos hawk.

Its hunting strategy is one of stealth and precision. The owl flies low over the ground, scanning for movement, feeding on rats, lava lizards, and small birds. On Genovesa Island, it has developed an ingenious technique to hunt storm petrels: waiting silently at the entrances of lava tunnels where the seabirds nest, ambushing them as they enter or leave. The short-eared owl’s ability to hunt prey larger than itself, including boobies, demonstrates both its agility and the creative adaptations that have evolved in isolation.

Short-eared owls nest under shrubs or in open ground, typically laying three or four eggs, of which one or two chicks usually survive. Though widespread across the islands, they remain vulnerable to egg predation by invasive rats. Habitat restoration efforts, including the removal of invasive mammals on islands such as Floreana, are indirectly helping their recovery.

Owls at Galápagos Safari Camp

Owls are among our most fascinating residents at Galápagos Safari Camp. Over the years, we’ve seen several barn owl families take up residence in the rafters of our main lodge. Their quiet presence has become part of the Camp’s nightly rhythm.  Guests often spot them perched on nearby branches, watching over dinner from their high vantage points. While barn owls are the species most often seen, short-eared owls have also been observed within the Camp’s grounds, a testament to the property’s healthy habitat and its connection with the surrounding highlands.

See: Wildlife Seen At Camp

Guardians of Balance

Both the barn owl and the short-eared owl are essential to the Galápagos ecosystem. By controlling rodent populations and preying on invasive species, they safeguard fragile habitats and support native flora and fauna. Protecting them means protecting the natural harmony that defines these islands.

To witness these remarkable birds is to experience one of the Galápagos’ quietest wonders.

Plan Your Galápagos Safari

Learn more about our Safaris and discover the wildlife that calls Galápagos Safari Camp home.