The Rainbow Owl (Strix mendacium) is a rare species of owl found in hardwood forests in the western United States and parts of China. Long coveted for its colorful plumage, the Rainbow Owl was nearly hunted to extinction in the early 20th century. However, due to conservation efforts, recent years have seen a significant population increase, particularly in northwestern Montana. Like many species of birds, the males have more striking colors then females, who are noticeably duller with more dark barring. Owlets start off with off-white downy feathers before their adult feathers grow in.