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
Family: Strigidae (Typical Owls)
- Shape
- Highly asymmetrical vane characteristic of a wing feather, with a rounded tip and a broad trailing edge. The leading edge (outer vane) is significantly narrower than the inner vane.
- Size
- Estimated at 10 to 12 inches (25-30 cm) in length. This is consistent with the primary feathers of a large Bubo species, which typically range from 24 to 32 cm.
- Rarity
- Common; the Great Horned Owl is the most widely distributed owl in the Americas and is regularly heard, though often difficult to see.
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Description
This is a primary flight feather from one of the most powerful predators in the avian world. The Great Horned Owl is a large, bulky bird with prominent ear tufts and a white throat patch. They have a wingspan of 3 to 5 feet and are known for their deep, rhythmic 'hoo-h'hoo-hoo-hoo' vocalizations. Their plumage is designed for camouflage against tree bark.
Colour & Pattern
Distinctive bold horizontal barring of dark chocolate brown or charcoal against a background of tawny, cream, and buff. The underside is typically lighter with more muted versions of the same patterns.
Barb Structure
Pennaceous and tightly interlocked for flight, but featuring specialized velvety 'fringe' or softened barbules on the surface and edges to dampen sound. The base shows plumulaceous (downy) barbs.
Texture & Surface
Incredibly soft and velvety to the touch. Unlike most birds, owl feathers have a unique 'fimbriate' leading edge and a downy upper surface designed for near-silent flight.
Key Features
Bold, wide dark brown bands; uniquely soft, velvety texture; fimbriate (combed) leading edge; significant vane asymmetry; large size.
Habitat
Extremely versatile; found in deciduous and evergreen forests, swamps, deserts, tundra edges, tropical rainforests, cities, and suburban parks.
Geographic Range
Common throughout North America, extending from the Arctic tree line south through Central America and much of South America. It is a year-round resident in most of its range.
Ecological Role
Apex nocturnal predator. They control populations of rodents, skunks, and even other birds of prey. They are vital indicators of ecosystem health due to their position at the top of the food chain.
Similar Species
Barred Owl (Strix varia) feathers are smaller and have more even, vertical barring on the body (though horizontal on wings); Snowy Owl feathers are much whiter with smaller dark spots/bars.
Interesting Facts
The Great Horned Owl has a grip strength of roughly 300-500 PSI, similar to a large dog's bite. Their specialized feathers allow them to ambush prey in total silence by breaking up the air turbulence that usually causes a 'whooshing' sound.
Condition Notes
The feather appears to be in relatively good condition, though there is some minor separation of the barbs (splits) along the trailing edge, likely due to natural wear before molting or handling.