Great horned owl (Bubo virginianus)

The horned owl is an American predatory nocturnal bird and is considered an important element in the structure and function of ecosystems where it regulates small wild or introduced mammal species.

Habitat:

The horned owl has a wide distribution, from the Nearctic region in Alaska to Argentina in South America. It can be distributed in almost all climates, with exception of the tundra and rainy tropical areas where it occurs sporadically. It lives in a wide range of vegetation types, from forests, mangroves, swamps, deserts, moors, farmland, and open areas with isolated trees. This species is associated with fragmented landscapes and considered tolerant to human activities.

Diet:

The horned owl is a generalist and opportunistic species that feed on a wide variety of prey which includes small and medium mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, fish, insects, and other invertebrates. It can sometimes feed on carrion when environmental conditions are severe.

The horned owl is a resident and can stay in its territory for several years.

Location:

It can be seen more often close to wooded areas or hunting in open spaces.