Great Horned Owl (also known as Hoot Owl or Tiger Owl)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Strigiformes, Family: Strigidae, Genus: Bubo, Species: Bubo virginianus
Family: Strigidae (Typical Owls)
- Shape
- Symmetrical vane, fluffy and elongated outline with a loose structure
- Size
- Approximately 3 to 4 inches long, typical of a fluffy body contour or breast feather from a large owl species
- Rarity
- Common
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Description
The Great Horned Owl is a powerful, heavily built nocturnal predator characterized by prominent ear tufts, large yellow eyes, and a deep hooting call. It is one of the most adaptable owls in the world.
Colour & Pattern
Off-white to light grey base with subtle brown or dark grey barring near the tip
Barb Structure
Plumulaceous (loose and fluffy) with disconnected barbs lacking effective hooklets, featuring a prominent afterfeather at the base
Texture & Surface
Extremely soft, silky, and matte, lacking any waterproof oils to maintain the silent flight adaptation characteristic of owls
Key Features
Fluffy barb structure, soft texture, pale coloration with faint dark barring, and a distinct afterfeather at the base
Habitat
Incredibly adaptable, found in deciduous and coniferous forests, deserts, swamps, tundra, and even urban and suburban parks
Geographic Range
Widespread throughout the Americas, ranging from the Arctic tree line down through South America
Ecological Role
Apex nocturnal predator playing a vital role in controlling rodent and small mammal populations
Similar Species
Barred Owl or Snowy Owl, though distinguished by specific barring patterns and size
Interesting Facts
Great Horned Owls are capable of exerting up to 500 psi of crushing power with their talons, comparable to the bite force of a large dog
Condition Notes
Fair condition, showing some wear and slight separation of the delicate barbs due to age or handling