Verreaux's Eagle-Owl
NameVerreaux's Eagle-Owl
Common NameVerreaux's Eagle-Owl
Scientific NameBubo lacteus
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)150
Length (cm)63
Weight (g)2500
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly grey-brown, finely vermiculated and barred, giving a mottled appearance. The underparts are paler with fine barring. It has dark brown eyes and small, inconspicuous ear tufts, but its most striking feature is the prominent pink eyelids.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a deep, resonant hoot, often described as a 'hoo-hoo' or 'whu-whoo', typically given at dusk or dawn. It also produces various growls and screeches.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia in the west, east to Ethiopia and Somalia, and south to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Dark eyes, Prominent pink eyelids, Grey-brown finely barred plumage, Small ear tufts
Description
The Verreaux's Eagle-Owl is a very large, powerful owl native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterized by its distinctive pink eyelids and dark eyes, often found in woodlands and savannas where it hunts a wide variety of prey.
