why do owls hoot

Owls hoot primarily to communicate with other owls. The main reasons for hooting are to mark their territories and to attract mates. By hooting, owls tell other owls that they occupy a specific area and are willing to defend it. Hooting also helps strengthen pair bonds during courtship. The calls vary by species, and not all owls hoot; some make different sounds like shrieks or whistles. Owls are most vocal after sunset and before sunrise, with some species also hooting during the day. Hooting helps owls establish space, find mates, and communicate important signals to one another in their nocturnal environment.