IDENTIFICATION. The largest of the worlds owls, with a wing span of up to six feet, there is little the European Eagle Owl can be confused with. Large orange eyes, long dark 'ear' tufts and a black beak give the face a distinctive appearance. The ear tufts (not real ears) are generally used for display, showing moods such as aggression. The feet are feathered to the talons which can be as large as a Golden Eagles. Feathering ranges from almost black on the wings and ear tufts,  through browns to light buff colours on the chest and head. The scientific name 'Bubo' originates from the Greek word 'Buzo' meaning 'to hoot'.

IN FLIGHT.  The flight is similar to that of other eagle owls. Slow wing beats and gliding close to the ground are its normal pattern, but fast bursts of speed are used in pursuit of prey such as hare.

DISTRIBUTION. Extinct in Britain? Being a large bird of prey European Eagle Owls were persecuted because it was believed that they killed farm stock such as lambs. Until recent years there was a price on the head of these owls across Europe. Today there are rumours of European Eagle Owls living in the wild across Great Britain. From Devon to Lincolnshire, Humberside to Scotland reports of large 'orange eyed' owls are often made.

In a secret location in Yorkshire one pair of owls has successfully reared young. These birds are probably escaped captive bred owls, with maybe the exception of  some of the Scottish birds. To see true wild European Eagle Owls you would have to go to Norway or Sweden, the French Alps down to Spain and Italy. Large areas of woodland near to high mountainous regions are preferred.

FOOD. Mammals up to hare size, though small deer may be taken. Birds include grouse and ptarmigan. Other owls such as Tawny Owls and even Snowy Owls can end up on the menu. However this may have more to do with territory defending than looking for a snack.

BREEDING. April-May. 2 to 4 eggs laid on a rocky ledge or a simple scrap in the ground. Abandoned crows nests may also be used. Young hatch after 5 weeks, flying 45-50 days later.

SIZE. The largest of the worlds owl -  66-71cm (26-28ins)

WEIGHT. 2050g-3500g (4lb 8oz-7lb 8oz)

WING SPAN. up to 180cm (6feet)

CALL. A loud whooo is generally heard. When annoyed a throaty oowah accompanied by beak snapping and the extending of the wings make quite an intimidating display. Oddest of all the Eagle Owl calls is the a hyena like ha-ha-ha-ha call, usually made in the early part of the evening.

FALCONRY.