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With its ghostly appearance, rasping shrieks, and habit of roosting in such places as church belfries, the American Barn Owl has attracted much superstition. However, it is really a good omen for farmers who find it in their barns, for it preys chiefly on mice and rats. Discovered in its daytime retreat, the American Barn Owl bobs its head and weaves back and forth, peering at the intruder. At night, it is often heard calling as it flies high over farmland or marshes. One of the most widespread of all landbirds, found on six continents and many islands.