Great Horned Owl (also known as Tiger Owl or Hoot Owl)

A striking contour feather from North America's most recognizable large owl, featuring the classic cryptic barring that provides perfect camouflage against tree bark.

Intricate barred pattern of alternating dark brown, cinnamon, and white/buff transverse bands, typical of cryptic plumage designed for woodland camouflage.

Pennaceous at the tip and upper margins with interlocking barbicels, transitioning into a very soft, loose, plumulaceous base lacking firm hooklets, with a small afterfeather.

Extremely soft, velvety, and matte in texture with no gloss, helping to absorb sound waves for silent flight.

Soft velvety texture, rounded tip, and distinct brown and white transverse barring with a fluffy white basal down.

Inhabits a remarkably diverse range of habitats including deciduous and evergreen forests, deserts, swamps, tundra, and urban/suburban parks.

Widespread across the Americas, ranging from the subarctic regions of North America down through Central America and deep into South America.

Apex nocturnal predator controlling populations of rodents, rabbits, and other small mammals, acting as a key indicator of ecosystem health.

Barred Owl (Strix varia) and Long-eared Owl (Asio otus), which can be distinguished by finer barring and distinct coloration nuances.

Great Horned Owls are capable of exerting a crushing foot pressure of over 300 pounds per square inch, roughly equivalent to a large dog's bite.

Good condition with intact barbs and minimal wear, showing fresh coloration.