Weavers as prey of Barn Owls.

Abstract

Barn Owls Tyto alba are widespread globally, and feed largely on rodents, but also birds. In Africa, weavers are an important component of avian prey. 44 studies were found that list weavers as prey of Barn Owls, with 11 species of Ploceidae weavers identified to species level, although there are likely many other weaver species that have been taken but not yet identified. Hunting strategies of the Barn Owl are taking weavers at their nests at night (four records), or taking roosting weavers from reedbeds. Barn Owls have been recorded at Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea colonies, where they presumably pick up recently fledged juveniles.