Great Horned Owl (also known as Tiger Owl or Hoot Owl)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Strigiformes, Family: Strigidae, Genus: Bubo, Species: Bubo virginianus · Strigidae (Typical Owls) · Primary flight feather (Remiges), likely P7-P9 based on secondary emargination
Species
Bubo virginianus
Feather Type
Primary flight feather (Remiges), likely P7-P9 based on secondary emargination
Family
Strigidae (Typical Owls)
Shape
Asymmetrical vane with a broad, rounded tip; features a distinct leading-edge serration (fimbriae) and a velvety dorsal surface
Size
Approximately 10 to 12 inches (25-30 cm) in length, which is consistent with the primary feathers of a large female Great Horned Owl
Rarity
Common; though nocturnal and difficult to see, they are the most widely distributed owl in the Americas
Color & Pattern
Bold horizontal banding of dark chocolate brown and mottled cream/buff; the ventral (under) side is lighter than the dorsal side; rachis is light tan at the base darkening toward the tip
Barb Structure
Pennaceous structure with specialized plumulaceous base; barbs are equipped with fine harplike filaments that create a velvety 'muff' to dampen sound
Texture & Surface
Extremely soft, silky, and matte; the surface is covered in microscopic extensions that reduce air turbulence, enabling silent flight
Description
A large, powerful raptor with prominent ear tufts and a white throat patch. This feather reflects the owl's mottled camouflage, designed to blend with tree bark during the day
Key Features
Soft velvety texture, bold brown-and-buff banding, and the presence of fine comb-like serrations on the leading edge (fimbriae)
Habitat
Highly adaptable; found in deciduous and evergreen forests, swamps, deserts, subalpine fields, and urban parks/orchards
Geographic Range
Year-round resident across North and South America, ranging from the Arctic treeline south to the tip of South America; largely non-migratory
Condition Notes
Good; shows slight wear at the tip and some separation of the lower barbs (pennulum), likely a molted feather from a mature adult
Interesting Facts
The 'horns' are not ears but tufts of feathers; they have a grip strength of 300-500 psi, comparable to the bite of a large dog
Ecological Role
Apex predator; controls populations of rodents, rabbits, and even other raptors like Red-tailed Hawks
Similar Species
Long-eared Owl feathers (significantly smaller and narrower) and Great Gray Owl feathers (more grey-toned and longer)