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Great Gray Owl Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    Great Grays are one of our tallest owls, and have broad wings and a long tail. They are big headed owls with a large facial disk. They dwarf most other owls in size but not by weight; their bulk is mostly made of feathers. Females are larger than males.

    Relative Size

    Larger than a Great Horned Owl in size, but not in weight. Smaller than a Bald Eagle.

    Relative Sizebetween crow and goosebetween crow and goose

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 24.0-33.1 in (61-84 cm)
      • Weight: 24.7-60.0 oz (700-1700 g)
      • Wingspan: 53.9-60.2 in (137-153 cm)

    Shape of the Great Gray Owl© Ian Davies / Macaulay Library