Distinguishing Features – One of the largest of Canadian owls. Overall coloration brown with white and blackish highlights. Chest; lighter. Large, yellow eyes ringed in brownish-orange. Beak, black. Prominent ear tufts. Female is somewhat larger than male.
Size:
- Male: 46 – 58.5 cm (19.5 – 23.5 in)
- Female: 56 – 63 cm (22.5 – 25.25 in)
Habitat
In both deciduous and coniferous woodlands.
Nesting
In a tree. Will usually occupy an abandoned nest of another large bird.
- Eggs, 2 or 3; white
- Incubation period approx. 30 days.
Notes
The Great Horned Owl is a powerful hunter and feeds on many types of small animals, including rabbits, mice, rats, grouse, ducks, crows and even the odd chicken in a farmyard. It is primarily a nocturnal hunter and retreats deep into the woods during daylight hours to rest.
The Horned Owl’s call is a series of Hoo notes, usually three to five in succession.
If you liked this post, you will surely be amazing by our article on the Snowy Owl.