What is a Great Horned Owl?

The Great Horned Owl is the largest and most common owl of North America. They live in the deserts, forests, cities, parks, and rain forests of North America. Great Horned Owls have tufts of feathers called plumicorns on their head. They are not sure yet, but scientists have a theory that these are so that the owls can recognize each other.

Diet of a Great Horned Owl

Great Horned Owls usually like to eat small rodents like squirrels and rabbits, and other mammals like skunks.

Predators of the Great Horned Owl

The Great Horned Owl has no predators.

 

Features of the Great Horned Owl

Silent Flying

Great Horned Owls have loose feathers. Because of this, the Great Horned Owl flies silently. This helps it catch prey.

Large Eyes

Great Horned Owls are nocturnal. They have large eyes and big pupils to help it see in the nighttime. Their eyes cannot move around, so they can turn their head any direction to see all around them.

Excellent Hearing

Great Horned Owls can hear noises ten times fainter than the noise a human can hear. This helps track down its prey.

Camauflauge

Great Horned Owls can easily blend into their surroundings. This also helps it hunt.

 

Great Horned Owls are also great parents. They will protect the nest from egg eating predators. When the babies hatch, they start flying at about ten weeks old.