The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

The great horned owl [Bobo Virginianus] is our most common owl. A nocturnal hunter, they hunt silently, gliding over fields and woodlands in search of mostly small mammals. However, great horned owls will also prey on other owls, hawks, snakes and young alligators. Over 250 prey species have been identified.

Great horned owls begin their mating behavior of hooting, screeching, bowing and rubbing beaks in December. They begin nesting in January with the building of a large stick-pile nest lined with feathers or fur if available. Two to four eggs are laid and gestated for 26-35 days. The owlets start roaming the nest at six to seven weeks and are called "branchers."

A very aggressive owl, they maintain their territories up to eight years. In captivity great horned owls have lived up to 38 years; in the wild 13 years is common. Their only natural enemies are other great horned owls.

For more great horned owls images visit http://abirdsingsbecauseithasasong.com/recent-journeys.