Owls are a group of birds of prey that are known for their distinctive appearance and nocturnal habits. Owls are found on every continent except Antarctica, and there are more than 200 species of owls. Owls are known for their sharp vision, powerful wings, and strong talons, which they use to catch and kill prey.
Owls vary in size and appearance, but they are generally characterized by their large, forward-facing eyes, sharp beaks, and feathers that are adapted for silent flight. The barn owl (Tyto alba) is a common species of owl found in many parts of the world. It is a medium-sized owl with a wingspan of up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) and a body length of up to 40 cm (16 inches). The barn owl has a distinctive white, heart-shaped face and a reddish-brown body, and it feeds on a variety of prey including small mammals, birds, and insects.
Other species of owls include the great horned owl (Bubo virginianus), which is found in North and South America, and the snowy owl (Bubo scandiacus), which is found in the Arctic regions of North America and Eurasia. Owls are found in a variety of habitats including forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Many species of owls are considered to be at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, hunting, and other human activities. Conservation efforts have helped to increase the populations of some owl species, but many species are still considered to be at risk.