Eurasian Eagle-Owl

This is a massive owl, one of the world's largest, with a wingspan reaching up to 188 cm. The bird features prominent ear tufts and striking orange eyes, with plumage designed for perfect concealment among rocks and trees.

Tawny-buff base with distinct dark brown or blackish transverse bars (banding); the bars are somewhat irregular and mottled, creating a cryptic camouflage pattern characteristic of the species.

Pennaceous and tightly interlocked, but featuring a specialized 'fimbriate' or velvety upper surface; the leading edge contains fine comb-like fringes to dampen sound.

Extremely soft, velvety, and matte. Unlike waterbirds, it lacks oily waterproofing, appearing dry and soft to minimize air turbulence noise.

Large size, soft 'velvet' texture for silent flight, and the characteristic broad, dark transverse banding set against a buff background.

Found in diverse landscapes including rocky cliffs (preferred for nesting), coniferous forests, and semi-open shrublands where they can hunt.

Resident throughout much of Europe and Asia. In Croatia, they are found year-round, particularly in rocky coastal regions and karst mountain areas.

Top-tier predator; they help regulate populations of mammals and smaller birds, indicating a healthy and diverse ecosystem with available prey.

Long-eared Owl (Asio otus) feathers are similar but significantly smaller and more slender. Tawny Owl (Strix aluco) feathers have less distinct banding and more spotting.

Eurasian Eagle-Owls are 'apex predators' capable of taking prey as large as roe deer fawns or other raptors like Buzzards and Northern Goshawks.

Fair to Good. There is some mechanical damage (notching) near the tip likely caused by wear or contact with vegetation, and the base show signs of natural molt.

Found in a field near a primarily evergreen forest located in Croatia, Rab