In this article, readers will gain valuable insight into the distinctive calls, hoots, and sounds of the Great Horned Owl. Firstly, the article highlights the impressive hooting ability of this owl species, with the male’s deep, low, booming sounds traveling several miles away. The female’s hoots, although higher pitched due to a smaller syrinx, also make for an enchanting auditory experience. Additionally, the article explores the various noises that Great Horned Owls make, such as screeching to protect their nests or piercing screams from juvenile owls begging for food. A range of growls, barks, coos, beak snapping, shrieks, and whistles are also detailed. Throughout the article, readers are encouraged to listen to audio clips and watch videos to fully appreciate the rich repertoire of sounds produced by these remarkable creatures.
Great Horned Owls (Bubo virginianus) are known for their distinct calls, hoots, and sounds. In this article, we will explore the different types of vocalizations made by these majestic birds, including hooting, breeding season calls, nest protection screeches, juvenile begging calls, and other unique sounds. To enhance your understanding, we have included audio clips to help you identify each type of call.
Hooting
The hooting of a Great Horned Owl is iconic and unmistakable. It is often described as deep, low, and booming. Male Great Horned Owls are known for their hoots, which can be heard several miles away. Their hooting pattern is typically a series of four to five hoots that sound like “Hoo-hoo hooooo hoo-hoo.” Females also hoot, but their calls have a higher pitch due to their smaller syrinx, the vocal organ in birds.
During the breeding season, Great Horned Owl pairs perform hooting duets. This duet consists of the male and female taking turns hooting, creating a back and forth rhythm that is truly captivating. If you want to hear the hooting of Great Horned Owls, the best time is at night during late fall or early winter, when they are setting up territories and courting mates.
Breeding season calls
Apart from hooting, Great Horned Owls have specific calls during the breeding season. These calls are used to set up and defend territories and to court potential mates. By vocalizing these distinct calls, the owls communicate their presence and establish their boundaries. Listening for these calls during the breeding season can provide valuable insights into the behavior and population dynamics of Great Horned Owls in an area.
Nest protection screeches
When it comes to protecting their nests, Great Horned Owls are not shy about voicing their concerns. Adult owls emit loud screeching sounds to deter potential threats from approaching their nests. These screeches serve as warning signals to keep predators at bay. If you happen to hear these screeches, it’s a good indication that there is a Great Horned Owl nest nearby.
Juvenile begging calls
Young Great Horned Owls have a distinct call when they are begging for food from their parents. These calls are often piercing screams that are hard to ignore. The young owls rely on their vocalizations to grab their parents’ attention and prompt them to bring food. If you hear these begging calls, it means there are young owls nearby that are in need of nourishment.
Other sounds
In addition to their hoots, breeding season calls, nest protection screeches, and juvenile begging calls, Great Horned Owls produce an array of other sounds. These include growls, barks, coos, beak snapping, shrieks, and whistles. Each sound has a unique purpose, whether it’s communication with other owls or sending a warning to potential intruders.
Female screech
Apart from the screeches used for nest protection, female Great Horned Owls have a specific screech that is different from the typical warning call. This screech is often described as a higher-pitched, continuous sound that is used for communication between pairs or during territorial disputes. If you hear this screech, it means you are witnessing a specific interaction between female Great Horned Owls.
Begging call
The begging call of a young Great Horned Owl is an integral part of its development. It relies on vocalizing its needs to receive food from its parents. The begging call is a key indicator of the presence of young owls and can provide valuable insights into their behavior and survival.
Video examples
To further assist in identifying Great Horned Owl calls and sounds, we have provided a video featuring various vocalizations of these majestic birds. Watching and listening to these examples can give you a better understanding of the range of calls and sounds produced by Great Horned Owls.
Reader experiences
Have you had the opportunity to hear the calls and sounds of a Great Horned Owl? We would love to hear about your experiences! Please share your encounters and observations in the comments section below. Your insights can contribute to our collective understanding of these fascinating birds.
Conclusion
Understanding and identifying the calls, hoots, and sounds of Great Horned Owls can enhance our appreciation for these magnificent creatures. From their unmistakable hooting to their unique vocalizations during different seasons and situations, each sound serves a purpose in the owls’ communication and survival. By listening for and recognizing these calls, we can deepen our connection with these iconic birds and gain valuable insights into their behavior and presence in our environment.
