Eurasian Eagle Owl
Bubo bubo
Class: Aves Order: Strigiformes Family: Strigidae
Size
Weight (Males): 3.3-6 lbs
Weight (Females): 3.8-9 lbs
Average Wing Span: 6 feet
Lifespan
Lifespan (Wild): 20 years
Lifespan (Captivity): up to 60 years
Diet
These carnivores prey on small mammals and birds
Habitat & Range
Forests and Mountainous areas across Europe and Asia
Interesting Facts
Eurasian Eagle Owls are one of the largest owl species in the world. Their wingspan is about 5-6.5 ft. Females are slightly larger than males.
It is often falsely believed that owls can turn their heads all the way around. While they cannot actually do this, they can turn their heads 270 degrees. They have 14 vertebrae in their neck. A human’s neck has 7 vertebrae.
Eagle owls are often heard more than they are seen. They communicate through a variety of hoots and clucks.
These owls hunt primarily at night. They have very good hearing and night vision. Like all owls, their wings are designed differently from other birds, this is to allow them to fly almost silently. They will catch animals on the ground as well as birds flying mid-air.
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Threats
Their biggest threat is human activity and their numbers are decreasing. They will often abandon their nest if it is disturbed. They are also sometimes killed by poisoning, traffic, and overhead wires.
