The Barn Owl (Tyto alba) can be found all across the world on every continent except Antarctica. Here in Australia, you’ll find our sub species living in habitats ranging from forests, grasslands and suburbs to the city. Yet perhaps you haven’t spotted one yet? It could be because they’re nocturnal, nesting during the day and active at night, but it could also be due to their silent flight! They have incredibly soft and serrated feathers that muffle sound as they fly. Their wingspan is large compared to their bodies so they can generate lift with minimal effort and don’t need to vigorously flap as they glide through the air. Their long feathered legs minimise air turbulence further reducing noise in flight.
They have amazing hearing which is aided by their iconic heart-shaped faces. Layers of feathers spread outward from the owl’s eyes creating a disc shape. This disc funnels sound waves towards the owl’s asymmetrical ears. With this incredible audio system the Barn Owl is able to detect even the faintest noises made by potential prey or predators.
 
Screech with joy! I’m so excited to sew this much-loved animal on a sweater for you. If you’re a bit of a night owl too, your cold evenings just got snugglier. For every Barn Owl sold in the Pre-Sale I’ll be giving $20 to birdlife.org.au for the amazing work they do protecting our feathered friends.