Avipedia
Great Grey Owl

Great Grey Owl

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NameGreat Grey Owl
Common NameGreat Grey Owl
Scientific NameStrix nebulosa
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)140
Length (cm)72
Weight (g)1250
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly grey with heavy streaking and barring, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. It features a prominent, large facial disc with concentric dark grey rings, bright yellow eyes, and a distinctive black 'bow-tie' pattern under the chin.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of deep, resonant hoots, often described as 'whoo-hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'whoo-whoo-whoo'. They also produce various barks, hisses, and growls, especially when agitated.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsboreal forest, coniferous forest, taiga, swamps, clearings
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the northern latitudes of North America, including Canada and Alaska, extending into the northern United States. Also present in Eurasia, from Scandinavia and Eastern Europe across Russia and northern Asia.
Identifying Featuresvery large size, prominent grey facial disc with concentric rings, bright yellow eyes, lack of ear tufts, distinctive black 'bow-tie' mark under chin, heavily streaked and barred grey plumage

Description

The Great Grey Owl is a very large owl known for its impressive size and striking facial disc. It is a formidable predator, often hunting by sound in deep snow, and is typically found in dense boreal forests.

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