The Barred Owl..

Barred Owls prefer deep moist forests, wooded swamps, and woodlands near waterways. The average length is 16-25 inches, it's wingspan 38-50 inches.. The Barred Owl is a nocturnal bird that hides in dense foliage during the day, usually high up. May also roost on a branch close to a broad tree-trunk, which is exactly where we first saw this one at the Indiana Dunes State Park. This is a beautiful Owl.. and once he noticed us, he just kept on posing for photos.. :)
I would write more, but instead, I'll give you the link to the really wonderful website, where much of the above information came from.... http://www.owlpagess.com/owls.php?genus=Strix&species=varia .. Enjoy!