Great Horned Owl
A powerful nocturnal predator that may use broad semi-open landscapes, but should be observed from a distance rather than deliberately attracted.
By Birdly Yard Editorial TeamReviewed Updated
Local season
Months with a state-level historical signal for this species.
Status
Backyard reports
Look for it
Listen near woodland edges, orchards, wetlands, fields, desert washes, parks, and mature residential areas after dusk.
Food
Mostly mammals and birds, with reptiles, amphibians, insects, fish, and carrion taken opportunistically.
Nesting
Natural nesting guidance
Great Horned Owl habitat
Keep mature trees, snags where safe, quiet roost cover, and dark corridors, while protecting smaller birds at ordinary feeders.
Great Horned Owl diet and food
Mostly mammals and birds, with reptiles, amphibians, insects, fish, and carrion taken opportunistically.
Never feed or bait an owl; remove rodenticides and allow natural prey dynamics rather than creating an artificial feeding site.
Great Horned Owl nesting and breeding
Often adopts old hawk, crow, raven, or heron nests, and may use cavities, cliffs, buildings, or platforms; keep all active sites undisturbed.
Great Horned Owl behavior and where to look
A largely nocturnal ambush predator that hunts silently from perches and may use daylight when food is scarce.
Photography
Use a long lens in available light from a public location; never use playback, flash, bait, or nest-side lighting.
What to avoid
Never handle a young owl, disturb a roost, use poison for rodents, or encourage an owl close to pets and small backyard birds.
Continue exploring
Explore related bird guides
Compare food, habitat and nesting. Local seasonal records vary by species.
