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) · Flight (Remex), likely a Secondary feather
Species
Bubo virginianus
Feather Type
Flight (Remex), likely a Secondary feather
Family
Strigidae (Typical Owls)
Shape
Broad and rounded tip, slightly asymmetrical vane, characteristic of a secondary wing feather providing lift and stability.
Size
Approximately 7 to 9 inches (18–23 cm) in length. This is consistent with the secondary feathers of an adult Great Horned Owl, which typically range from 6 to 10 inches depending on position.
Rarity
Common; they are the most widely distributed true owl in the Americas, though more often heard than seen.
Color & Pattern
Rich ochraceous-buff or tawny base color with bold, dark brown to blackish horizontal bars. The dark bars are wider than the light intervals near the tip. The underside is paler and more muted. The rachis is creamy white to light tan.
Barb Structure
The structure is largely pennaceous with a distinct plumulaceous (downy) base. A diagnostic 'velvety' pile is present on the dorsal surface and the outer edges appear softened/fringed (fimbriae) to allow for silent flight.
Texture & Surface
Extremely soft and silky to the touch, with a matte appearance. Unlike the stiff, glossy feathers of hawks, these have a 'hairy' or 'velvety' surface texture that dampens sound during wing beats.
Description
This feather belongs to one of the most formidable avian predators in the Americas. The Great Horned Owl is a large, bulky bird with distinctive ear tufts and a white throat patch. Their plumage is a complex camouflage of mottled grays, browns, and buffs, allowing them to disappear against tree bark during the day.
Key Features
Bold dark barring on a warm tawny/buff background; soft, velvety surface texture; fringed edges; broad, rounded tip.
Habitat
Highly adaptable; found in deciduous and evergreen forests, swamps, deserts, agricultural areas, and even urban parks or suburban neighborhoods.
Geographic Range
Non-migratory resident throughout most of North America (from the subarctic to Mexico), Central America, and parts of South America.
Condition Notes
Good to Excellent. The vane is intact with minimal fraying. There are no obvious fault bars or heavy wear, suggesting it was recently molted from a healthy adult.
Interesting Facts
The Great Horned Owl's grip is so powerful it can require 28 pounds of force to open their talons. They are one of the few animals that regularly prey on skunks, as they have a very poor sense of smell.
Ecological Role
Apex predator. They control populations of rodents, rabbits, and other birds. Their presence indicates a healthy, functioning ecosystem with a balanced food web.
Similar Species
Long-eared Owl (smaller, thinner bars), Barred Owl (horizontal bars on tail but vertical streaks on belly, feathers usually grayish-white rather than tawny), Red-tailed Hawk (stiffer texture, different barring pattern).