Great Horned Owl is the most widespread owl in North America, being found from
the treeline near the Arctic south through the rest of the continent.
Powerful predators, they will take prey larger and heavier than themselves.
Great Horned Owls are among the earliest nesting birds, starting as early as
mid- to late-winter.
Habitat: Can be found in nearly any habitat in North America,
although it requires suitable nesting habitat during its breeding season.
Diet: Wide variety, with more
mammals than other types of animals. Will eat rabbits and hares, rats,
mice, ground squirrels, skunks, opossums, snakes, lizards, frogs, large insects,
and birds up to the size of geese. They will take larger prey relative to
their size than many birds of prey, even taking on porcupines and similarly
Behavior: Primarily nocturnal, although they will
occasionally hunt in the late evening. Usually hunts by observing from
a high perch and swooping down to capture prey once spotted.
Nesting: January through May. Great Horned
Owls are one of the earliest nesting birds in South Dakota.
Migration: Permanent resident throughout its range, although individuals may wander
Conservation Status: Widespread and common, with no apparent
significant population declines.
Cornell University's "All About Birds - Great Horned Owl"
-- Great Horned Owl
Photo Information: April 13th, 2006 - Minnehaha
County - Terry Sohl
Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or
text links below for additional, higher-resolution Great Horned Owl photos.