Background
Great horned owls are named for the prominent tufts of feathers on top of their heads that resemble horns. These tufts are called "plumicorns" and are what make this species of owl so unique.
With a range that stretches from as far north as Alaska all the way down to South America's Strait of Magellan, the magnificent great horned owl has the largest range of any owl in the Americas.
Great Horned Owls lay 1-4 eggs, but in this nest in Charlo, Montana, 2-3 eggs is most common. The eggs typically hatch about 2 days apart.
Great Horned Owl chicks will stay in the nest for the first several weeks. By June, at 7 weeks of age, the owlets will be capable of short flights. Fledglings remain with parents for most of the summer. |