Barred Owl Named Betty Becomes Nest Box Star

Milwaukee County's wildlife webcam gives intimate look at owl's life.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 7:36pm

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A video camera installed in a Milwaukee County nest box is giving online viewers an intimate look at the life of Betty, a female barred owl, as she incubates her eggs and cares for her owlets.

Why it matters

The webcam allows the public to observe the daily life of a barred owl, a species that is native to the region but not often seen up close. It also serves as a wildlife ambassador, educating people about the importance of preserving natural habitats.

The details

The barred owl, known for its distinctive "who cooks for you, who cooks for you all" call, has made the nest box her home. Viewers can watch as she incubates her eggs and later feeds and cares for her owlets once they hatch.

  • The video camera was installed in the Milwaukee County nest box.
  • Betty, the female barred owl, has been occupying the nest box.

The players

Betty

A female barred owl that has made a Milwaukee County nest box her home, where she is being observed by a webcam.

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What they’re saying

“Who cooks for you, who cooks for you all!”

— Betty

What’s next

The webcam will continue to provide live footage of Betty and her owlets as they grow and develop.

The takeaway

The barred owl webcam allows the public to observe the daily life of a native species and serves as an educational tool to promote wildlife conservation efforts in the region.