The great horned owl is one of the most widespread and powerful owls in the Americas. Here is a close look at how it lives and hunts.
Appearance and size
The great horned owl is a large, bulky owl typically standing 18 to 25 inches tall with a wingspan that can reach around 5 feet. It is easily recognised by the two prominent feather tufts on its head, often called horns, along with large yellow eyes and mottled grey-brown plumage. Females are generally larger than males. This camouflaged colouring helps the bird blend against tree bark during the day. It is one of the most powerful birds of prey in North America.
Range and habitat
Great horned owls are found across most of North and South America, from dense forests and deserts to swamps, farmland and city parks. This adaptability is a big reason they are so common. They typically nest in trees, often reusing the abandoned nests of hawks, herons or other large birds rather than building their own. Most pairs are highly territorial and stay in the same area year-round instead of migrating, defending their patch against intruders.
Diet and hooting call
These owls are fierce hunters that eat a wide range of prey, including rabbits, mice, voles, skunks, birds and reptiles. They hunt mostly at night using silent flight and powerful talons. For more detail see what owls eat. Their famous call is a deep, soft series of hoots, often written as who-who-who, used to mark territory and attract mates. Learn how long they survive on owl lifespan.