Before we get started with today’s Wild Fact, I would like to take a moment to wish all of our American readers a Happy Independence Day. As well, I want to thank them for taking a break from BBQs, fireworks and family to learn about the Eurasian Eagle Owl. Don’t worry, you will be back to eating your tasty burger soon but first let’s see what we can uncover about one of the largest owl species on the planet.  As you might have guessed from the name, this particular owl can be found across Europe, Northern Africa, Asia and the Middle East, so choose your location and we will get going – don’t worry, I promise to have you back in time for dinner.

Big Bird

As mentioned, the Eurasian Eagle Owl is one of the largest owls on the planet. Their main competitors for this title are the Great Grey Owl which is slightly longer and the Blackiston’s Fish Owl which is a little heavier. So just how big is today’s featured animal? These majestic birds can weigh up to 4.2 kg (9.3 lbs) and has a wingspan measuring more than 1.88 m (6.1 feet), which is mind boggling when you think that their body length is only 75 cm (2.5 feet) long. With a wingspan of this size, you would think they would be a decent flier…and you would be right.

Flying High

The Eurasian Eagle Owl is a strong flier as they will use their large wings to create shallow beats followed up with long, fast glides. Unlike other owls this individual species will even take the time to soar high into the sky using updrafts. This unusual owl behaviour has caused some grief amongst birders as they will often be mistaken for a Common Buzzard, which oddly enough looks nothing like the Eurasian Eagle Owl. The next time you see a bird soaring into the sky, make sure you think of the Eurasian Eagle Owl.

Eurasian Eagle Owl Fast Fact

The call of the Eurasian Eagle Owl is a deep “ooh-hu”. Typically the male will focus on the first syllable while the female will create this sound with a slightly higher pitch. Just out of curiosity, if you actually made the “ooh-hu” sound when reading this…please let me know in the comments. I know I definitely made the sound a few time while writing this post. Oh, and one more interesting tidbit before we call it a day. Did you know that each individual Eurasian Eagle Owl can be identified by their call? That’s right, you can identify each member of this owl species by listening to their calls. Pretty cool, eh!