Different Types of Owls Worksheet (Free Printable)

This types of owls worksheet helps kids learn to identify real owl species using a simple coloring and labeling activity.

Children look closely at each owl’s features, match them to the correct name, and build early observation and classification skills along the way.

It works well for elementary science lessons, homeschool nature studies, or bird units, especially when covering nocturnal animals or wildlife habitats.

The hands-on format keeps students engaged without feeling like busywork.

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How to Use the Types of Owls Worksheet

This printable includes a full-color owl reference page and a black-and-white page where kids label each owl using the word bank.

Start with the color page and have kids spot differences (ear tufts, face shape, markings) before you talk through the names.

On the black-and-white page, kids color the owls first, then match and write the correct names from the word bank.

For a quick extension, choose one owl and look up one fact (where it lives, what it eats, or one “weird but true” detail).

Save the finished page in a science notebook or nature journal so it becomes a reference later.

Different Owl Types

This worksheet features a mix of owls kids are likely to recognize and a few that may be new to them. Each one looks a little different, which makes it a great chance to practice noticing details like feather patterns, face shape, and ear tufts.

• Elf owl – The tiniest owl in the world. These live in desert areas of the southwestern U.S. and Mexico and often nest inside cactus holes, which kids always find surprising.
• Barn owl – Easy to spot because of its heart-shaped face. Barn owls are excellent hunters and help farmers by eating rodents.
• Burrowing owl – Instead of living in trees, these owls make their homes underground. You’ll often see them standing outside their burrows during the day.
• Barred owl – Named for the dark stripes across its chest. They live in wooded areas and have a loud “who cooks for you?” call.
• Great horned owl – One of the most powerful owls. The “horns” are actually feather tufts, and they help the owl blend into trees.
• Long-eared owl – Known for tall ear tufts and great camouflage. They’re hard to spot because they look just like tree branches.
• Northern saw-whet owl – Very small but noisy. Their call sounds like a truck backing up, which kids usually think is funny.
• Northern spotted owl – Lives in old forests in the Pacific Northwest. This owl is often talked about in conservation lessons.
• Great gray owl – The tallest owl in North America. Its big round face makes it look larger than it really is.
• Eurasian eagle owl – One of the largest owls in the world, with bright orange eyes and huge wings.
• Short-eared owl – Has tiny ear tufts you can barely see. These owls hunt in open fields, especially at dusk.
• Spectacled owl – Named for the white rings around its eyes that look like glasses.
• Snowy owl – Bright white and lives in the Arctic. Many migrate south in winter, which is why people sometimes spot them in unexpected places.

More Bird Worksheets

If your kids are enjoying this activity, here are a few other bird-themed printables that work well alongside it.

Our owl coloring page is a simple option for younger students or a quick early finisher activity.

The types of birds worksheet is great for comparing different birds and noticing how they vary in size, shape, and features.

With the bird color by number pages, kids practice number recognition while still getting to be creative.

For something hands-on, the owl handprint art lets children make their own owl using paint. It’s a fun way to mix art with a science theme.

Books About Owls for Kids

If you’d like to add a few read-alouds or independent reading options to go with this worksheet, these owl books work really well.

Owls (National Geographic Kids Readers, Level 1) – A great nonfiction pick for early readers. It uses real photos and simple facts, so kids can learn about owls without feeling overwhelmed.

All Things Owls for Kids – This one goes a bit deeper with fun facts, pictures, and short explanations. It’s perfect for kids who want to learn more after completing the worksheet.

Owl Moon – A beautiful storybook about a quiet nighttime owl walk. This pairs nicely with science lessons and gives kids a more emotional connection to owls.

Get Your Different Owl Types Poster & Coloring Page Here!

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Last Updated on 13 January 2026 by Clare Brown