The great horned owl is a very widespread and powerful owl species found in the
Americas. This nocturnal bird of prey is known for its impressive ‘horns’ formed
by feathers and its hauntingly beautiful hooting sounds.
What Is a Great Horned Owl?
The great horned owl (Latin name: Bubo virginianus) is a nocturnal bird of prey
found in North and South America. This large owl is often called the ‘tiger of the
sky’ for its powerful hunting skills.
Key Facts:
Lifespan: 10-15 years (wild)
Height: 45-63 cm
Weight: 0.9-2.5 kg
Activity: Nocturnal
Great Horned Owl Call & Sound
The first thing you would notice about the great horned owl is its call.
What does a great horned owl sound like?
Deep hooting sounds: hoo-hoo-hoo… hoo-hoo
Males and females make duets together
Sometimes screeches, hisses, and screams when threatened
The sounds produced by the great horned owl are heard at night, especially
during breeding season.
Size & Wingspan
The great horned owl is one of the biggest owl species found in their
habitats.
Wingspan: 1.0-1.5 meters (3-5 feet)
Females are larger than males
The owl has strong talons which can exert a lot of power
The size and power of the great horned owl make them the dominant birds in
their habitat.
Great Horned Owl Habitat: Where Do They Live?
They are extremely adaptable and can live in a variety of habitats:
Forests
Deserts
Wetlands
Cities
They live in:
North America
South America
Unlike other birds, they do not migrate and live in one territory all year round.
Great Horned Owl Diet: What Do They Eat?
Great horned owls are powerful carnivores and have a diverse diet.
Their common food includes:
Rodents like mice and rats
Rabbits
Birds
Reptiles
Even skunks and cats
Yes, they are capable of attacking pets like cats, although this is not common and
depends on their size and opportunity.
Great Horned Owl Feathers & Adaptations
Their feathers are specially designed for hunting. They are silent flyers and blend
in with their environment. They have ear tufts, although these are not their ears.
They use them for communication. They have excellent night vision and hearing.
Baby Great Horned Owl (Owlets)
A baby great horned owl is called an owlet.
Interesting facts:
Covered in fluffy white down
Raised in nests often taken from other birds
Learn to fly after several weeks
Parents are highly protective and aggressive when defending their young.
Nesting Behavior
Great horned owls do not build their own nests. Instead:
Take over an abandoned hawk or crow nest
Nest in trees, cliffs, or buildings
They are among the earliest nesting birds; they lay eggs in winter.
Predators & Threats
The adult great horned owls have few natural enemies because of their size and
strength. However:
Eggs and owlets are preyed upon by raccoons or birds
Habitat destruction and hitting by a car are threats to them
Great Horned Owl Facts
Can turn their head up to 270 degrees
Possess one of the strongest grip forces in birds of prey
Their hoot can be used in a movie to represent nighttime
Highly territorial and fearless
How to Draw a Great Horned Owl
- Draw a round body and head
- Draw two horn-like tufts
- Draw large eyes and a small beak
- Draw the wings and feather patterns
- Draw shading to give it a realistic look
Are Great Horned Owls dangerous to humans?
Great horned owls are not dangerous to humans. However, they may be
dangerous under the following circumstances:
They may fight back when their nest is threatened.
Their talons are very sharp.
It is wise to view them from a safe distance.
The great horned owl is the epitome of the master of the night sky. Its silent
flight, hunting prowess, and distinct hoot make it an integral component of the
ecological system.
Whether you hear its distinct call echoing through the woods or catch a
glimpse of it perched quietly in the dark of night, the great horned owl is one
of the most interesting predators of nature.