Why is the barn owl considered endangered?

Barn owls are endangered due to habitat loss from urbanization and agriculture, as well as their low tolerance for cold climates.

Where are barn owls usually found in Canada?

Barn owls are typically found nesting in small parts of British Columbia and Ontario in Canada.

Was the barn owl in Calgary a common sight?

No, sightings of barn owls are extremely rare in Alberta and far outside their natural Canadian range.

Home / Environment / Rare Barn Owl Stuns Alberta Photographer

Rare Barn Owl Stuns Alberta Photographer

25 Nov, 2025

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Summary

An endangered barn owl, rarely seen in Canada, was spotted in Calgary.
The owl's presence far from its native range surprised wildlife photographer Brendon Clark.
Habitat loss and cold tolerance are major threats to the barn owl's survival.

A remarkable wildlife encounter occurred in Calgary when photographer Brendon Clark sighted an endangered barn owl, a species seldom observed in Canada and far outside its typical range. Clark described the moment as surreal, initially questioning if his eyes were playing tricks on him.

The barn owl's natural nesting grounds are limited to small areas in Ontario and British Columbia. Sightings in Alberta are exceptionally rare, with very few confirmed instances over the years. This unusual appearance prompts questions about the bird's migration patterns and the factors contributing to its displacement.

Conservation efforts are critical as barn owls are recognized as endangered due to habitat loss driven by urbanization and agriculture. Their struggle for survival is compounded by their low tolerance for cold temperatures, making prolonged presence in regions like Alberta challenging.

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