Owl Species of Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey: A Photographers Guide

Jan 20

Photographing owls in Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey offers a thrilling opportunity to capture some of North America's most enigmatic and elusive birds of prey. These states are home to a diverse range of owl species, including the Eastern Screech Owl, Barred Owl, Great Horned Owl, and Snowy Owl. Each species has its own unique characteristics, habitats, and behavior, making owl photography a dynamic and rewarding experience. Whether you're exploring dense forests for a Barred Owl or scanning open fields for a Snowy Owl, each location presents different challenges and rewards. Patience is key, as many of these owls are nocturnal and require careful observation to spot and photograph, especially in the quieter hours of dawn or dusk.

When photographing owls in the northeastern U.S., it’s important to consider the best times of year and the environments they inhabit. Winter is prime time for species like the Snowy Owl, which migrates south from the Arctic, often perching in open fields or coastal areas in search of prey. On the other hand, year-round residents like the Eastern Screech Owl and Great Horned Owl can be found in wooded areas or even suburban settings. A successful owl photography outing requires an understanding of the specific owl species and their habitats. For example, Barred Owls often inhabit mature forests near water, while Northern Saw-whet Owls prefer dense coniferous forests.

To increase your chances of capturing these majestic birds, it’s essential to approach them quietly and with respect for their environment. Owls are sensitive to human presence, so it’s important to remain patient and avoid disturbing their natural behavior. A long lens (500mm or greater) is invaluable for photographing owls from a distance, especially when they’re perched high in trees or perched on far-off fence posts. Focus on the eyes for the sharpest and most impactful shot. Additionally, lighting can be challenging, particularly in forested areas or at dusk, so experiment with your camera settings—use fast shutter speeds to freeze motion, and adjust ISO levels to ensure adequate exposure in low light. With the right equipment, patience, and understanding of the local habitats, photographing owls in these states can yield stunning and unforgettable images.

Owl Species of Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey:

1. Eastern Screech Owl

Time of Year: Year-round
Habitat: Wooded areas, suburban neighborhoods, parks, and orchards. They prefer areas with a mix of mature trees and open space, often near water sources. Look in the cavities and hollows of old trees at dawn and dusk.

2. Great Horned Owl

Time of Year: Year-round
Habitat: A wide variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, parks, and open fields. They prefer wooded areas with tall trees for nesting. In Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey I find GHO nesting in the cavities of old sycamore trees, large pines, or abandoned eagle nests.

3. Barred Owl

Time of Year: Year-round
Habitat: Mature forests, particularly near water such as streams, ponds, or swamps. They thrive in mixed deciduous forests with dense tree cover. My best barred owl photos were created by finding them in the woods edged to very swampy areas. I wear my muck boots for these adventures!

4. Northern Saw-whet Owl

Time of Year: Winter and early spring (Migratory)
Habitat: Dense coniferous forests, often at higher elevations. These owls prefer areas with abundant cover and relatively quiet surroundings. These small owls are hard to find due to their size as well as their preference in perches, often tucked hidden in the thicket or branches of pine trees.

5. Long-eared Owl

Time of Year: Winter and early spring (Migratory)
Habitat: Forest edges, shrublands, and open woodlands. They also favor areas with thick brush or overgrown fields for cover and hunting opportunities. LEO are shy and tend to prefer quiet areas. Like SWO, they often tuck in and camouflage themselves in thick branches.

6. Short-eared Owl

Time of Year: Winter (Migratory)
Habitat: Open fields, grasslands, prairies, and marshes. Short-eared owls are often found in wide, open spaces where they hunt small mammals such as voles and mice. They are easiest to find at dusk when they hunt by flying low over the grasslands.

7. Snowy Owl

Time of Year: Winter (Migratory)
Habitat: Open fields, farmland, coastal areas, and sometimes airports or other large open spaces. Snowy owls prefer wide, flat landscapes with minimal tree cover, often seen perched on mounds or low fences. I most often find these owls thriving on remote coastal dunes and beaches.

What About the Barn Owls?

I did not list barn owls as they are rare to find and at threat. Barn owls are officially considered a species of special concern meaning that they are extremely close to being an endangered species. You can learn more about their status from the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Barn Owl Conservation Initiative here.

Tips for Owl Spotting in Pennsylvania:

Timing: Most owls are nocturnal, so early morning or dusk is the best time to hear them or spot them perched. Some species, like the Snowy Owl, are also active during the day, especially in winter.
Habitat Clues: Listen for distinctive calls, and look for large trees (Great Horned Owl, Barred Owl) or open fields (Snowy Owl, Short-eared Owl) depending on the species. Many owls nest in tree cavities or abandoned nests, so look for signs of nesting activity.
Seasonal Considerations: Some owls, such as the Northern Saw-whet Owl and Long-eared Owl, migrate to Pennsylvania in winter, while others, like the Eastern Screech Owl and Great Horned Owl, remain year-round.

By familiarizing yourself with these species, their seasonal patterns, and the habitats they prefer, you'll increase your chances of spotting these fascinating creatures in the wild.

For more information on photographing winter owls, check out my article: Tips for Photographing Winter Owls.

Kate Garibaldi