Hailed as the world’s largest species of owl by length, although it is surpassed in weight by a few other species. Native to the dense coniferous forests of the northern hemisphere, including parts of North America and Eurasia, this owl is known for its huge facial disc and piercing yellow eyes, surrounded by a mottled grey pattern that gives it an almost ghostly presence in its natural habitat.
One of the most fascinating features of the Great Grey Owl is its exceptional hunting ability, aided by its acute hearing. The owl’s facial disc functions like a radar dish, directing sounds toward its ears, which are asymmetrically placed on its head. This unique arrangement allows the owl to pinpoint the location of its prey, even under a thick cover of snow or in low-light conditions. Typically, its diet consists of small rodents, with a particular preference for voles, which it hunts primarily during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk.
The Great Grey Owl is adapted to the harsh conditions of its cold environment. It has a thick, fluffy plumage that insulates it against freezing temperatures. Despite its bulky appearance, the owl is surprisingly light, weighing less than many other large birds of prey. This lightness, combined with its large wings, makes it an exceptionally silent flier, capable of swooping down on prey without a sound.
Distribution
Belarus
Canada
China
Finland
Germany
Kazakhstan
Latvia
Official estimate
Lithuania
Mongolia
Norway
Poland
Russia
Sweden
Ukraine
United StatesAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
