ExploreBird

Eurasian Eagle-Owl

Bubo bubo

The Eurasian Eagle-Owl is one of the largest owls in the world! It has striking orange eyes and can be found in various habitats across Europe and Asia.

Habitat: Forests, mountains, and rocky areas

Appearance

The Eurasian Eagle-Owl is a very large owl distinguished by its prominent, dark ear tufts and piercing orange eyes. Its plumage is a beautiful mix of streaky dark browns, tawny, and rust colors, providing excellent camouflage against trees and rocks.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderStrigiformesFamilyStrigidaeGenusBubo

Eurasian Eagle-Owl

Interesting facts

An eagle-owl’s huge, fixed eyes are as big as human eyes!

Their famous 'ear' tufts are just feathers, showing mood!

These powerful owls can catch prey bigger than themselves!

They can turn their head almost 270 degrees in either direction!

Special abilities

Eurasian Eagle-Owls can fly almost silently because their specialized feather edges dampen sound, helping them surprise prey.

Eurasian Eagle-Owls have huge, fixed eyes packed with rod cells that help them see tiny movements in very low light.

Eurasian Eagle-Owls possess incredibly strong talons that can instantly subdue large prey, preventing escape.

Eurasian Eagle-Owls use their asymmetrical ear openings to precisely locate prey in complete darkness by sound.

Measurements & details

Length: 58-75 cm
Wingspan: 138-190 cm
Weight: 1.5-4.2 kg
Lifespan: 20-60 years
Top Speed: 80 km/h
Clutch Size: 1-6
Incubation: 31-36 days

Diet & Feeding

This large owl is a skilled nocturnal hunter, feasting on small to medium-sized mammals and birds.

Primary Foods

Rabbits
Hares
Rats
Hedgehogs
Crows
Ducks

Foraging Method

Ambush

Ecological connections

hunts

European Rabbit

Oryctolagus cuniculus

A primary food source in many parts of its range.

hunts

European Hare

Lepus europaeus

Targets larger hares with its powerful talons.

hunts

European Hedgehog

Erinaceus europaeus

Can overcome the hedgehog's spiky defenses.

hunts

Carrion Crow

Corvus corone

Often preys on sleeping crows at night.

eaten by

Red Fox

Vulpes vulpes

May prey on eagle-owl eggs or owlets in nests.

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Feathered

These are animals covered in soft, beautiful feathers that help them fly, stay warm, and even attract mates! Think of all the amazing birds you know.

Mountain

Discover the amazing plants and animals that call towering mountains and high altitudes their home, adapting to cooler air and rocky slopes.

Forest

These lush habitats are filled with countless trees, offering homes to a huge variety of plants and animals! Immerse yourself in the green canopy.

Carnivorous

Discover fierce hunters and clever predators that get all their energy from eating other animals. They play a vital role in keeping nature's balance.

Keystone Species

Discover the hidden heroes of nature! These special species play an incredibly important role in their habitat, holding the entire ecosystem together like a crucial piece of a puzzle.