Meet Jareth!

Common barn owls are a graceful and mysterious bird of prey found across fields, forests, and open habitats on every continent except Antarctica. Known for their heart-shaped faces, silent flight, and keen hunting skills, these owls are expert nocturnal hunters, feeding on rodents and other small mammals.

Jareth was brought to Chehaw after being hit by a car and losing her ability to fly silently, a skill essential for hunting and surviving in the wild. Because of this, she cannot be released, but she now has a safe home with us where she helps educate visitors about owls and the challenges wild animals face.

Barn owls play a vital role in their ecosystems by controlling rodent populations, helping maintain balanced habitats, and supporting healthy food webs. At Chehaw, Jareth serves as an ambassador for wildlife conservation, showing guests that every animal has a story and that human care can give injured animals a second chance. Observing her up close allows visitors to appreciate the beauty, skill, and importance of these incredible nocturnal hunters.