Great Horned Owl

Great Horned Owl

Bubo virginianus

A large, powerful owl with prominent ear tufts.

Size

43-64 cm

Wingspan

91-153 cm

Weight

1400-2500 g

Lifespan

13 years in the wild

Conservation

Least Concern

Identification

Large ear tufts (horns), white throat patch, and yellow eyes. Mottled brown plumage.

Habitat

Found in almost any habitat from forests to deserts to urban parks.

Diet

Incredibly varied: mammals, birds, reptiles, and even other owls.

Behavior

Nocturnal and highly territorial. Known for its deep, booming hoot.

Distribution

Throughout the Americas.

Description

The Great Horned Owl, also known as the tiger owl or the hoot owl, is a large owl native to the Americas. It is an extremely adaptable bird with a vast range.