Great horned owl

Great Horned Owl (8457397428)

Great Horned Owl (6019438860)

Great Horned Owl in Flight C 9508

Talons, Great Horned Owl

File:Bubo virginianus - Great Horned Owl XC450919.mp3 Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus), also known as the tiger owl or the hoot owl, is a large owl native to the Americas. It is an adaptable bird with a vast range and is one of the most widely distributed true owls in the Americas. Its primary habitat includes forests, swamps, deserts, tundras, open country, and tropical rainforests, showcasing its versatility in residing in varied environments.

Description

The Great Horned Owl is notable for its distinctive horn-like ear tufts, from which it derives its name. It has a powerful build, with a body length ranging from 18 to 25 inches and a wingspan of 40 to 57 inches. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females generally larger than males. Its plumage is a mix of mottled brown, gray, and white, allowing it to camouflage effectively against tree bark.

Behavior

Great Horned Owls are known for their deep, resonating hoots, which serve as territorial calls and can be heard over several miles on a clear night. They are primarily nocturnal, hunting from dusk to dawn. Their diet is diverse, feeding on a wide range of prey including rodents, rabbits, skunks, birds, and even other owls. They possess strong talons and a powerful beak, which they use to catch and kill their prey.

Reproduction

Breeding season for Great Horned Owls begins in late winter. They do not build their own nests but instead take over the nests of other large birds, or use cavities in trees, cliffs, and buildings. The female lays 1 to 4 eggs, which she incubates for about 30 to 37 days. The male provides food for the female and the chicks until they fledge, which occurs about 42 to 56 days after hatching.

Conservation Status

The Great Horned Owl is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), due to its wide distribution and large, stable population. However, it faces threats from habitat destruction, collisions with vehicles and structures, and secondary poisoning from rodenticides.

Cultural Significance

Throughout history, the Great Horned Owl has held various symbolic meanings for different cultures. In some Native American folklore, it is seen as a symbol of death or a messenger of the underworld, while in other cultures, it represents wisdom and knowledge.