Great Horned Owl

46-63 cm (18-25") Common and widespread throughout North America. Varied habitats; forests, thickets, open areas, deserts, suburbs.

Large yellow eyes and widely spaced ear tufts or "horns" gives it a catlike appearance. Larger size, white throat, and finely barred breast and belly distinguish it from Long-eared Owl. Much larger than crows that often pester it.

Mostly nocturnal.

Song: resonant hooting.

Videos

Images

Credit: Ray Barlow

Credit: Greg Schneider

Distribution Maps

Great Horned Owl winter distribution map

Great Horned Owl distribution map