Great Horned Owl (also known as Tiger Owl or Hoot Owl)

A magnificent apex predator, the Great Horned Owl is known for its prominent ear tufts and deep, booming hoots. Its feathers are a masterclass in camouflage, blending browns, tans, and grays to mimic tree bark. They have a wingspan of up to 4.8 feet and are capable of taking down prey larger than themselves.

Rich tawny-ochre base color with distinct transverse dark brown horizontal barring. The barring is variegated and somewhat irregular, typical of the 'tiger-striped' appearance of this species.

Primary pennaceous structure at the tip transitioning into a highly plumulaceous (downy) base; barbs are extremely soft and flexible with specialized velvety barbules for silent flight.

Extremely soft, velvety, and matte. The surface lacks the glossy sheen found in waterbirds, as it is adapted for sound absorption rather than water repellency.

Tawny/ochre ground color, bold horizontal dark brown barring, and an exceptionally soft, fuzzy texture unique to the Strigidae family.

Highly adaptable; found in deciduous and evergreen forests, swamps, deserts, agricultural areas, and even urban parks.

Year-round resident across most of North America from the Arctic tree line south through Central and South America.

Apex nocturnal predator; controls populations of rodents, skunks, and even other birds of prey.

Long-eared Owl feathers (smaller, more orange) and Barred Owl feathers (generally more grey/white with less tawny saturation).

The Great Horned Owl has a grip strength of up to 300-500 psi, comparable to the bite force of a large dog, and their feathers are specially evolved with 'fringe' edges to allow them to fly in near-total silence.

Fair to Good. The feather shows significant separation of the barbs (venting) and some wear at the base, suggesting it was naturally molted and exposed to some minor weathering.