Audubon Magazine Photography & Videography

13 Photos of Owls That Will Make You Shriek (with Delight)

Have an owl itch that needs scratching? We're here to help.
A Burrowing Owl flexes its wings and stares at the camera, backlit by dramatic orange light.
Burrowing Owl. Photo: Michael Janusz/Audubon Photography Awards
By The Editors
Audubon magazine
Published October 13, 2025

Sometimes you just need an owl fix. We get it. Fortunately, with Halloween around the corner, we've got the perfect excuse to feature a gallery of astounding owl images to help you get in the fall spirit. From seriously sinister to just scary cute, these photos  capture nine North American owl species in all of their mysterious, enchanting glory. 

Once you're done here, be sure to check out the winning images for the 2025 Audubon Photography Awards, along with this year's honorable mentions and our annual Top 100 gallery. And if you find yourself wanting to see some real-life owls after this, here's how to find 5 different owl species near you.  

***

Eastern Screech-Owl (chicks) 

 

Long-eared Owl 

 

Great Horned Owl 

 

American Barn Owl 

 

Great Horned Owl (chick) 

 

Burrowing Owl

 

Short-eared Owl 

 

Great Gray Owl 

 

 Eastern Screech-Owl 

 

Short-eared Owl 

 

 Snowy Owl 

 

Great Horned Owl