Great Grey Owl
Image: Александр Кочетков (cc-by-nc)
NameGreat Grey Owl
Common NameGreat Grey Owl
Scientific NameStrix nebulosa
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)139.5
Length (cm)72.5
Weight (g)1250
Plumage DetailsPlumage is predominantly mottled grey and brown, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. It features dense barring and streaking across the body, with a prominent facial disc marked by concentric rings and a dark 'bow-tie' pattern under the chin.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of a series of deep, resonant hoots, often described as 'whoo-hoo-hoo-hoo' given at intervals. They are generally quiet birds outside of breeding season.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsboreal forest, coniferous forest, taiga, swamp, bog
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the boreal forests of North America, including Canada and Alaska, extending into the northern United States. Also present in Eurasia, from Scandinavia eastward across Russia and northern Asia.
Identifying Featureslarge size, grey mottled plumage, prominent facial disc with concentric rings, yellow eyes, dark 'bow-tie' pattern under chin, long tail, silent flight
Description
The Great Grey Owl is a very large owl with a distinctive round head and prominent facial disc. It is known for its silent flight and exceptional hearing, allowing it to hunt small mammals even under deep snow.
