Latin Name

Strix nebulosa

History at CuriOdyssey

Our great gray owl was donated to CuriOdyssey in October 2015. The owl was captive hatched at Calgary Zoo in Alberta, Canada.

Fun Facts about Great Grey Owls

These birds can detect prey up to two feet under snow. They will take over a nest previously used by other large birds.

Birth Date

April 2015

What do Gray Owls eat?

Primarily small rodents such as voles and gophers; will also eat other mammals, birds, and carrion. At CuriOdyssey, they are served mice, rats, guinea pig, rabbit, chicken, and quail.

How long do Great Gray Owls live?

In the Wild: up to 15 years
In Captivity: up to 27 years has been recorded

Where do Great Gray Owls live?

Great Gray Owls prefer dense boreal and coniferous forests and woodlands. They can be found in central Alaska and throughout most of Canada, extending into the northern Rockies; there is also a small population in Yosemite; also found in Asia and Europe.

Are Gray Owls endangered?

The great gray owl is listed as a species of "least concern" for wildlife conservation, although the Yosemite population is listed as Endangered under the CA Endangered Species Act. The bird is protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The biggest threat is habitat destruction, namely deforestation and timber harvesting.