Strix nebulosa
The Great Grey Owl, a majestic and elusive raptor, is one of the largest owl species by length, measuring 61 to 84 cm (24-33 inches) with an impressive wingspan of 137-152 cm (4.5-5 feet). Despite its imposing size, it is relatively lightweight, typically ranging from 700 to 1800 grams (1.5-4 lbs). Its plumage is predominantly mottled grey and brown, providing superb camouflage in its boreal forest habitat. Distinctive field marks include a massive, rounded head lacking ear tufts, piercing ye...
Found primarily in dense coniferous or mixed boreal forests, often near bogs, meadows, or clearings, it prefers low to moderate elevations.
Their diet consists almost exclusively of small mammals, primarily voles and shrews, which they catch using their exceptional hearing and silent flight.
Great Grey Owls are primarily crepuscular, often hunting during twilight hours, but will also forage during the day, especially when feeding young or during short winter days. They are masterful ambush predators, typically employing a 'sit-and-wait' strategy from a low perch, scanning for prey wi...
The Great Grey Owl boasts a vast circumboreal distribution across the Northern Hemisphere. In North America, its primary breeding range spans the boreal forests of Alaska and Canada, extending south into the northern tier of U.S. states, including Minnesota, Michigan, Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Was...
Least Concern
- The Great Grey Owl is the largest owl in North America by length, but lighter than the Snowy Owl or Eurasian Eagle-Owl. - It can detect and capture prey hidden under more than a foot (30 cm) of snow, thanks to its extraordinary hearing. - Its asymmetrical ear openings and large facial disc act ...