Barn owls are medium-sized owls with a distinctive heart-shaped face and long, broad wings. They have pale gray or brown plumage with white underparts and dark brown or black wing tips. Their eyes are large and dark, and they have a pronounced ruff of feathers around their neck.
Size
Barn owls typically measure between 34 and 44 cm (13 and 17 in) in length, with a wingspan of 85 to 112 cm (33 to 44 in). Females are slightly larger than males.
Weight
Barn owls typically weigh between 200 and 450 g (7 and 16 oz). Females are slightly heavier than males.
Plumage
Barn owls have soft, fluffy plumage that is pale gray or brown in color. Their underparts are white, and they have dark brown or black wing tips. The feathers on their back and wings are edged with buff or white, giving them a mottled appearance.
Facial Features
Barn owls have a distinctive heart-shaped face with large, dark eyes. Their facial disc is white, and it is surrounded by a pronounced ruff of feathers. Their beak is hooked and black.
Ears
Barn owls have asymmetrical ear openings, which help them to locate prey by sound. The left ear opening is located higher than the right, and it is slightly larger. This allows them to pinpoint the location of prey with great accuracy.
Wings
Barn owls have long, broad wings that are well-suited for silent flight. Their wingspan can reach up to 112 cm (44 in). Their flight is slow and steady, and they often flap their wings in quick, shallow strokes.
Tail
Barn owls have a short, rounded tail that is typically gray or brown in color.