Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus)

A striking barred feather from the master of the night skies, the Great Horned Owl, featuring specialized velvety barbs for silent flight

Intricate barred pattern of dark brown and warm buff/tan stripes across a lighter background

Modified plumulaceous structure with specialized velvety texture and fringed barbules that dampen sound

Exceptionly soft, velvety, and matte texture designed to eliminate sound during flight

Distinctive dark brown and buff transverse barring combined with a velvety, non-reflective surface texture

Extremely adaptable, found in deciduous and coniferous forests, deserts, wetlands, and urban areas

Widespread throughout the Americas, ranging from the sub-arctic of North America down to South America

Apex nocturnal predator controlling rodent and small mammal populations

Barred Owl (Strix varia) and Long-eared Owl (Asio otus), distinguished by bar width and softer edge modifications

Great Horned Owls possess asymmetrical ears that allow them to pinpoint prey in total darkness

Fair condition with slight fraying at the tip and base, showing normal wear from weathering