What’s under all of those feathers?

Hi Friends!

I have a new art video up on my YouTube channel. In this video we will use simple shapes to build the structure of a barn owl. You will learn about the anatomy of the bird with a step-by-step instruction on how to create those tricky feathers.

Barn owls are known as the farmer’s favorite owl because they help to keep the pest numbers down. They have great eye sight because of the scleral bone or facial disk. This allows them to detect movement with hardly any light. They also have excellent hearing. The light body, big wings and soft feathers all help the bird fly quietly through the night. Because of this, these birds are often known as ghost owls, or night owls.

Where do you find barn owls? Generally out in the open countryside or farmland. They like to hunt over open fields, looking for small mammals like mice and voles. Barn owls get their name from the fact that they used to nest in old farm houses or barns. These owls will still nest in human made structures. You can also find them nesting in tree cavities, caves, or burrows. 

Barn owls are known as an indicator species. If they are around, that indicates a healthy food chain. Have you seen a barn owl in your area?

Grab your sketchbook and come draw with me here!