Eurasian eagle-owl
One of the largest and most widely distributed owl species.
The Eurasian eagle-owl (Bubo bubo) is a large species of owl found across much of Eurasia, often simply called the eagle-owl in Europe and Asia. The IUCN lists its conservation status as least concern, though the trend is decreasing.
- Scientific name
- Bubo bubo
- Total length
- 56–75 cm (22–30 in)
- Weight (female)
- 1.75–4.6 kg (3.9–10.1 lb)
- Weight (male)
- 1.2–3.2 kg (2.6–7.1 lb)
- Conservation status
- Least concern (decreasing trend)
- Number of subspecies
- At least 12 described
Lore & Background
The Eurasian eagle-owl is a nocturnal predator that primarily hunts small mammals such as rodents and rabbits, as well as birds and larger mammals. Secondary prey includes reptiles, amphibians, fish, large insects, and invertebrates. It typically breeds on cliff ledges, in gullies, among rocks, and other concealed locations, laying a clutch of 2–4 eggs that hatch at different times. The female incubates the eggs and broods the young, while the male brings food; both adults provide parental care for about five months.
Reader's Guide
The Eurasian eagle-owl is significant as one of the largest living owl species, comparable in size to Blakiston's fish owl and the great grey owl, though it can weigh well more than twice as much as the largest great grey owl. Its wings are reportedly the smallest in proportion to body weight of any European owl, giving it high wing loading. The species exhibits considerable plumage variation across its many subspecies, with upper parts ranging from brown-black to tawny-buff to pale creamy gray, and orange eyes that are distinctive. Its talons are very large and not often exceeded in size by diurnal raptors. The eagle-owl inhabits mountainous and rocky areas, coniferous forests, steppes, and occasionally farmland and park-like settings in cities. Tame individuals have been used in pest control to deter large birds such as gulls from nesting.
Did You Know?
- The Eurasian eagle-owl has a total range of about 51.4 million km² (19.8 million sq mi).
- Its wings are reportedly the smallest in proportion to body weight of any European owl.
- Tame eagle-owls have occasionally been used in pest control to deter large birds such as gulls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Eurasian eagle-owl?
The Eurasian eagle-owl (Bubo bubo) is a large owl species native to much of Eurasia, and in Europe and Asia it is often simply referred to as "the eagle-owl."
How big is the Eurasian eagle-owl?
It measures roughly 56–75 cm in total length and ranks among the largest owls in the world. Females can reach about 4.6 kg while males top out near 3.2 kg, showing a clear size gap between the sexes.
Where does the Eurasian eagle-owl live?
It enjoys one of the broadest ranges of any owl species, occurring across a vast stretch of Eurasia. At least twelve subspecies have been described, reflecting how widely it has spread and adapted.
What is the Eurasian eagle-owl's conservation status?
The IUCN currently lists it as least concern, meaning it is not at immediate risk of extinction. However, the overall population trend is flagged as decreasing, so long-term monitoring remains important.
Why is the Eurasian eagle-owl considered notable?
Its combination of large body size, enormous geographic spread, and the high number of recognized subspecies makes it a standout species in the owl family. For birdwatchers and ornithologists, it is one of the most recognizable and widely encountered large owls on two continents.
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