1. Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus): The Great Horned Owl is one of the largest and most powerful owls found in North America. They have prominent ear tufts and large yellow eyes. These owls are found in various habitats, from forests and woodlands to open fields and city parks.
2. Barred Owl (Strix varia): Barred Owls are medium-sized owls with pale gray or brown feathers and dark eyes. They are known for their distinctive hooting calls. Barred Owls prefer wooded areas, including riparian forests, dense coniferous forests, and mixed forests.
3. Northern Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis caurina): The Northern Spotted Owl is a threatened subspecies of the Spotted Owl found in old-growth forests in the Pacific Northwest. They have spotted plumage and large round heads. These owls are found in coniferous and mixed forests, especially those dominated by large, old trees.
4. Western Screech-Owl (Megascops kennicottii): Western Screech-Owls are small owls found in various habitats, including coniferous forests, woodlands, and suburban areas. They have distinctive ear tufts and large yellow eyes.
5. Great Gray Owl (Strix nebulosa): Great Gray Owls are large, long-tailed owls with gray plumage and yellow eyes. They are found in dense coniferous forests and riparian areas, primarily in eastern Washington.
These are just a few examples of the owls found in Washington, and different species may have more specific habitat preferences within the state.