Barn Owl (Tyto alba) This is a truly cosmopolitan species, it occurs on all the continents except Antarctica. It is an expert hunter of rodents, and they will breed profusely during outbreaks of rodent plagues. They build no nest, but breed in natural cavities, among rocks or in tree holes, or even in other bird’s nests such as the nests of Sociable Weavers or Hamerkops. It has an eerie, screeching call, which has led to it being regarded as an ill omen by superstitious people.