• Skip to Content
  • Skip to Main Navigation
  • Skip to Local Navigation
  • Skip to Search
  • Skip to Sitemap
  • Skip to Footer
Help develop a Bird ID tool!

Great Horned Owl

Bubo virginianus ORDER: STRIGIFORMES FAMILY: STRIGIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

Found from the Arctic tundra to the tropical rainforest, from the desert to suburban backyards, the Great Horned Owl is one of the most widespread and common owls in North America.

Come Join NestWatch

Appearance

Owls
Owls
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Large owl.
  • Prominent ear tufts widely spaced on head.

Immature Description

Immature like adult. Fledges from nest while still downy around the head and without noticeable ear tufts.

Range Map Help

Great Horned Owl Range Map
View dynamic map of eBird sightings

Field MarksHelp

  • Adult
    Zoom In

    Great Horned Owl

    Adult
    • © Michael J. Hopiak/CLO

Similar Species

  • Long-eared Owl slimmer, with proportionately larger ear tufts that are closer together on head.
  • Barred Owl without ear tufts, has streaking, not barring on underparts, and has dark eyes.