A very large, tall owl of northern meadows. Adult is grayish overall with diffuse streaks on breast, softly patterned wings, a black-and-white "bowtie" on the throat, large round head lacking ear tufts, and yellow eyes. Sexes are similar.

Length: 69 (cm) Wingspan: 134 (cm)

Voice:

Deep series of low-pitched single hoots, low whistles.

Habitat:

Meadows with surrounding woodlands, conifers.

Behavior:

Nocturnal, but may be active during daylight. Nest is in abandoned bird or squirrel nest, cavity, platform, or broken-off snag. Sometimes nests in loose colonies.

Feeding:

Hunts from perch or on the wing, gliding silently to pounce on prey. Uses acute hearing to locate prey underneath snow. Eats rodents, small mammals, and other small animals. During winter often breaks through snow cover to capture prey.