Birds are Amazing: Great Horned Owl

Height: 18 - 25 in.

Wingspan: 3 - 5 ft.

Weight: 2 - 5.5 lbs.

Lifespan: up to 28 years

The great horned owl, also known as the hoot owl, is one of the most majestic and awe-inspiring creatures in the bird world. With its distinctive ear tufts or "horns," large size, and piercing yellow eyes, this nocturnal predator is both feared and revered in equal measure.

Appearance and Habitat:

The great horned owl is found throughout North and South America and can thrive in a wide range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, deserts, and even urban areas. It is one of the largest owl species, standing up to 25 inches tall and boasting a wingspan of up to 5 feet. Females are typically larger than males, weighing up to 5.5 pounds compared to the males' 3.5 pounds.

The great horned owl's distinctive ear tufts or "horns" are not actually horns, but rather tufts of feathers that can be raised or lowered at will. Its plumage is a mottled brown and gray, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark and other natural surfaces.

Shutter Bison Mouse Pad

Buy Now

Behavior and Diet:

The great horned owl is primarily nocturnal, hunting at night and roosting during the day in trees or on ledges. It is a skilled hunter and can prey on a wide variety of animals, including rodents, rabbits, skunks, and even other birds. Its talons are strong and sharp, allowing it to snatch its prey with ease, and its beak is curved and powerful, enabling it to tear flesh from bone.

Unlike mammals, owls lack a crop, which is a specialized pouch that aids in food storage and digestion. Instead, they have a gizzard, a muscular part of their digestive system that helps break down prey. When an owl consumes its prey, such as small mammals or birds, the digestible portions are processed and absorbed in the owl's digestive tract. However, the indigestible components, such as bones, fur, feathers, and other hard materials, are unable to pass through the owl's digestive system. To remove these indigestible parts, the owl regurgitates them in the form of pellets. This process not only allows the owl to rid itself of undigested materials but also helps to keep its digestive system clean and efficient. By expelling pellets, owls maintain their health and optimize their ability to consume and extract nutrients from their prey, ensuring their continued survival in their respective habitats.

Despite its fearsome reputation as a hunter, the great horned owl also has a softer side. During the breeding season, males and females engage in elaborate courtship rituals, including duets of hooting and wing-flapping. Once a pair has formed, they will mate for life and raise their young together.

Conservation and Threats:

Although the great horned owl is not currently listed as endangered, it does face several threats. One of the biggest threats to the species is habitat loss due to deforestation and urbanization. Additionally, the use of pesticides and other toxins can harm the owls and their prey.

Another threat comes from human interference, as people sometimes disturb nests or attempt to capture and keep owls as pets. This can harm the owls and disrupt their breeding cycles, which can have serious implications for the entire ecosystem.

The great horned owl is a magnificent and awe-inspiring creature, with a unique appearance, impressive hunting skills, and complex social behavior. However, it also faces several threats that could impact its survival. By protecting its habitat and respecting its space, we can ensure that this majestic predator continues to thrive in the wild for generations to come.

The photographs contained in this website may not be reproduced without the express consent of Shutter Bison.