Great Horned Owl (Hoot Owl, Cat Owl)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Strigiformes, Family: Strigidae, Genus: Bubo, Species: Bubo virginianus · Strigidae (Typical Owls) · Contour (Body feather), likely from the facial disk or upper throat area.
Species
Bubo virginianus
Feather Type
Contour (Body feather), likely from the facial disk or upper throat area.
Family
Strigidae (Typical Owls)
Shape
Symmetrical and spatulate with a rounded, blunt tip. The overall outline is elongated and narrow.
Size
Approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in length. This is a small body feather consistent with the facial/head region of a Great Horned Owl.
Rarity
Common and widespread, though they are nocturnal and more often heard than seen.
Color & Pattern
Distinctive black terminal band at the tip, followed by a white or cream chevron (v-shape) pattern pointing toward the tip. The base is a mix of gray and buff.
Barb Structure
The distal end is pennaceous and semi-stiff, while the proximal half is highly plumulaceous (fluffy down). The barbs have a velvety surface typical of owls.
Texture & Surface
Velvety and soft to the touch. It has a matte finish without any gloss, designed for sound absorption and silent flight.
Description
This small contour feather shows the intricate camouflage and silent-flight adaptations of the Great Horned Owl. This species is a large, powerful raptor known for its prominent ear tufts and deep, rhythmic hooting. Its plumage is a complex mosaic of gray, brown, and buff designed to blend into bark.
Key Features
Dark black tip with a clear white 'V' or chevron pattern beneath it; velvety texture; large downy base.
Habitat
Extremely versatile; found in deciduous and evergreen forests, swamps, deserts, subalpine fields, and urban parks.
Geographic Range
Resident throughout North and South America, from the Arctic tree line to the southern tip of South America. They are non-migratory.
Condition Notes
Good condition. The feather looks freshly molted. There is minor spreading of the plumulaceous barbs at the base.
Interesting Facts
Great Horned Owls have a crushing grip of approximately 300-500 psi. They are one of the few animals that regularly prey on skunks because they have a poor sense of smell.
Ecological Role
Apex predator. They control populations of rodents, rabbits, and even other raptors. They are highly adaptable and indicate a healthy, diverse food web.
Similar Species
Long-eared Owl feathers (narrower and differently patterned) or Barred Owl (typically more horizontal barring rather than chevrons).