Great Grey Owl
NameGreat Grey Owl
Common NameGreat Grey Owl
Scientific NameStrix nebulosa
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)141
Length (cm)72.5
Weight (g)1300
Plumage DetailsPredominantly grey plumage with fine dark streaking and barring, especially on the underparts. It has a large, round facial disc with concentric grey and white rings, and bright yellow eyes. A distinctive black 'bow-tie' pattern is visible under its chin.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of a series of deep, resonant hoots, often described as 'whoo-whoo-whoo-whoo'. They are generally quiet owls outside of the breeding season.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsboreal forest, coniferous forest, taiga, open woodlands, swamps
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the boreal forests of North America (Canada and Alaska, extending south into parts of the northern US) and Eurasia (Scandinavia, Russia, and parts of northern Asia).
Identifying Featuresvery large size, prominent grey facial disc, bright yellow eyes, no ear tufts, black 'bow-tie' pattern under chin, long tail
Description
The Great Grey Owl is a very large owl with a proportionally large head and long tail, but a relatively small body. It is known for its impressive facial disc and silent, stealthy hunting in dense forests, often detecting prey by sound under snow.
