How to identify the Great Horned Owl

To correctly identify the Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

46-63 cm (18-25 in)

Wingspan

101-152 cm (40-60 in)

Weight

900-2500 g (2-5.5 lbs)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Highly variable, generally mottled grayish-brown to reddish-brown on the upperparts, with fine barring on the underparts. A prominent white throat patch (bib) is usually visible. Facial disc is rufous or grayish, bordered by black. Ear tufts are prominent and widely spaced, varying in length and color depending on subspecies and individual.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Short, strongly hooked, and dark (blackish) in color.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Large, piercing yellow eyes.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Feathered down to the talons, appearing grayish-brown.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Large size, prominent ear tufts, white throat bib, and yellow eyes. The overall robust build and powerful talons are also characteristic.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Young owls are covered in soft, downy plumage, initially whitish, gradually replaced by a mottled grayish-brown juvenile plumage similar to adults but often fluffier and less distinctly patterned. Ear tufts are present but may be less developed.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage coloration can vary geographically, with paler, grayer individuals in arid regions and darker, more rufous individuals in humid or forested areas.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Females are typically larger and heavier than males, though plumage is similar. Size difference can be noticeable when a pair is observed together.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. Look for a very large, bulky owl with a powerful build. When perched, it appears broad-shouldered and often somewhat hunched.
• Ear Tufts. The most distinctive feature. Two prominent, widely spaced feather tufts on top of the head, which are not ears but rather display feathers. These can be flattened or raised depending on the owl's mood.
• Facial Disc and Eyes. A rufous or grayish facial disc, often outlined in black, framing large, bright yellow eyes. The white throat patch (bib) is usually visible below the beak.
• Plumage Coloration. Mottled brown and gray overall, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. Look for fine barring on the belly and chest.
• Vocalization. Listen for its characteristic deep, resonant 'hoo-hoo-hooo-hoo-hoo' hooting call, especially at dusk or dawn. This is often the first indication of its presence.
• Behavior. Observe its nocturnal habits. Look for it roosting silently in dense trees during the day, often near the trunk. Its powerful, silent flight is also a key identifier.

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