Great Horned Owl
NameGreat Horned Owl
Common NameGreat Horned Owl
Scientific NameBubo virginianus
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)127
Length (cm)54
Weight (g)1700
Plumage DetailsAdults have mottled brown, gray, and white plumage, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. They feature prominent ear tufts, a reddish-brown facial disc, and barred underparts. Owlets are covered in fluffy white down.
Vocalization / CallTheir distinctive call is a deep, resonant series of hoots, typically described as 'hoo-hoo-hoo-hooo-hooo'.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, desert, grassland, urban, agricultural
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North and South America, from the Arctic tree line south to Tierra del Fuego.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Prominent ear tufts, Yellow eyes, Barred underparts, Nocturnal activity, Deep hooting call
Description
The Great Horned Owl is a large, powerful owl known for its prominent ear tufts and piercing yellow eyes. This nocturnal predator is highly adaptable, inhabiting a wide range of environments across the Americas and preying on various small to medium-sized animals.
