Great Grey Owl
Image: Александр Кочетков (cc-by-nc)
NameGreat Grey Owl
Common NameGreat Grey Owl
Scientific NameStrix nebulosa
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)141
Length (cm)72.5
Weight (g)1250
Plumage DetailsPlumage is predominantly grey with fine streaking and barring, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. It features a large, round facial disc with concentric rings, bright yellow eyes, and a distinctive black 'bow-tie' mark under its chin.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of a series of deep, resonant hoots, often described as 'whoo-whoo-whoo-whoo'. They also produce various barks, hisses, and screeches, especially when agitated or defending a nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsboreal forest, taiga, coniferous forest, open woodlands, swamps
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the boreal forests of North America, from Alaska and Canada south into the northern United States, and in Eurasia, from Scandinavia and Eastern Europe across Siberia to the Pacific coast.
Identifying FeaturesVery large size, Grey, streaked plumage, Prominent facial disc with concentric rings, Bright yellow eyes, Lack of ear tufts, Black 'bow-tie' mark under chin
Description
The Great Grey Owl is a very large owl with a distinctive grey plumage and a prominent facial disc. It is known for its silent flight and exceptional hearing, allowing it to hunt small mammals under snow cover in its cold, northern habitats.
