*Oology is a branch of ornithology studying bird eggs, nests and breeding behaviour. The word is derived from the Greek oion, meaning egg.

38. Great Horned Owl

This part of the Stanislaus Audubon Website is focused on 44 common Central Valley nesting species with background about their nesting habits. Please check the Great Valley Museum Central Valley Egg Collection starting page for links to all the featured species.

GREAT HORNED OWL NESTING INFORMATION (From birdsoftheworld.org)

Nests - Members of a pair often remain on the same territory year-round. Nest sites are extraordinarily variable; wider range of nest sites than any other bird in the Americas. Like other owls and falcons, does not build its own nest. Most commonly uses tree nests of other species in whatever tree is available, but also uses cavities in trees and snags, cliffs, deserted buildings, artificial platforms, ledges, pipes, and will lay eggs on the ground.
Eggs - Elliptical; as close to spherical as is encountered among birds. Dull white. Clutch size is most commonly 2 (range 1 to 4).
Incubation - Duration 30-37 days by female only.
Fledging - Altricial; naked; eyes closed; almost immobile in nest. Young owls move onto nearby branches at 6 wk of age. At 7 wk, capable of 3-4 short flights of diminishing distance; tire easily. If kept in sight, can be recaptured at any time up to 9 or 10 wk.

<< Wood Duck PREVIOUS | NEXT Swainson's Hawk >>