How to Bird Watch the Great Horned Owl

If you reside close to a wooded area such as a state park or forest, you may have observed a great horned owl perched in a tree watching you. Most of us like to listen to their call in the night. The male horned owl projects a deep hoo hoo H'hoos. This owl is a captivating bird to observe. If bird watching is of interest to you then Here's some tips on how to bird watch the Great Horned Owl.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Night vision camera
• Night vision binoculars
• Dress according to your weather.
• Wear dark clothing.
• Flashlight for walking on dark paths

1. Plan your owl watch sometime during the months of January and February, as this is courting season. Watch for owls during a full moon. Horned owls can be found in forest, dense woods, and city parks.

2. Locate the owls by listening to their calls. The great horned owl will call out to the female owl. The female will respond and you will hear them calling out to each other.

3. Walk slowly and quietly in the direction of the calling.

4. Use your night vision binoculars to observe the upper tree branches. Look for the great horned owls perched on tree branches.

Tips & Warnings

• Should you observe the male courting the female grab your night vision camera and start taking pictures! Male owls will plump their feathers, and stand very proud, their neck feathers will be extended and seem extra plump. The male owl will proceed in a bobbing motion; he will approach the female very slowly, and may rub her bill. The entire time that you are viewing this both owls will be "calling" to each other. They will join as one, feathers open slightly and bent toward the side, it is truly a remarkable sight.
• Never call; hoo hoo H'hoos to an owl, they will think you are an intruder
• Owls are aggressive with intruders, keep a safe distance from the nest.
• Great Horned Owls are very protective of their territory.

[Susang6]

on 7/3/2009 I reside in the woods, and if I sit outside I can listen to the great horned owls calling out to each other. It is very peaceful. On occasion I have observed them perched on tree branches, and descending in flight. the total wingspan is approximately six feet....Of course I did not have my camera!

[static404]

on 7/3/2009 It would be awesome to actually find one of these amazing birds. Nice article.

[andre7514]

on 12/24/2008 Very on time article, thanks for bringing this article out. 5*

[Kathymcbain]

on 12/23/2008 This sounds like something that would be really neat to do!

[JIN1128]

on 12/23/2008 Sounds interesting!