The great horned owl (Bubo virginianus) is a formidable predator and one of the most adaptable raptors in North America. With its distinctive feather tufts resembling horns, piercing yellow eyes, and powerful talons, this owl is an iconic nocturnal hunter[1][2]. Great horned owls inhabit a wide range of environments, from forests and woodlands to urban areas and deserts, demonstrating remarkable versatility in their choice of habitat[3][5].
These owls are known for their impressive size, with wingspans reaching up to 5 feet (1.5 meters)[4]. Their exceptional hearing and eyesight allow them to detect prey from great distances, even in complete darkness[2][6]. Great horned owls are opportunistic hunters, preying on a variety of animals including rabbits, rodents, other birds, and even skunks, showcasing their fearless nature[6][8].
During breeding season, which typically begins in winter, great horned owls form monogamous pairs and often reuse nests built by other birds[1][6]. Their adaptability and hunting prowess have contributed to their widespread success across the Americas, making them a vital part of many ecosystems[7][8].
大角鴞（學名：Bubo virginianus）是北美洲最具適應性的猛禽之一，也是一種令人生畏的捕食者。牠們以羽毛簇形成的特徵性「角」、銳利的黃色眼睛和強壯的爪子而聞名，是標誌性的夜行獵手。大角鴞棲息地範圍廣泛，從森林和林地到城市地區和沙漠都有牠們的身影，展現了驚人的棲息地適應能力。
這種貓頭鷹以其令人印象深刻的體型而聞名，翼展可達5英尺（1.5米）。牠們卓越的聽力和視力使其能在完全黑暗中從遠處偵測獵物。大角鴞是機會主義獵手，捕食各種動物，包括兔子、齧齒類、其他鳥類，甚至臭鼬，展現了牠們無畏的天性。
在繁殖季節（通常始於冬季），大角鴞形成一夫一妻的配對，並經常重複使用其他鳥類建造的巢穴。牠們的適應性和出色的捕獵能力促使牠們在美洲廣泛分布，成為許多生態系統中不可或缺的一部分。
Citations:
[1] https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Great_Horned_Owl/lifehistory
[2] https://www.chattnaturecenter.org/visit/experience/wildlife/animal-facts/great-horned-owl/
[3] https://www.hawkmountain.org/raptors/great-horned-owl
[4] https://www.robbiegeorgephotography.com/blog/blog_posts/great-horned-owl-bubo-virginianus-tiger-owl-overview
[5] https://www.hww.ca/en/wildlife/birds/great-horned-owl.html
[6] https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/great-horned-owl
[7] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_horned_owl
[8] https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Birds/Great-Horned-Owl
