Among the largest in its family, the Great Gray Owl holds the title as North America’s longest owl species. This majestic bird’s size, coloration, and range have inspired a host of nicknames, including Spectral Owl, Lapland Owl, Spruce Owl, and Sooty Owl. The Great Gray’s lightly mottled plumage, speckled with lighter gray, tan, and white, allows it to blend beautifully into the wooded environments it favors. Its large head lacks ear tufts, and it has an especially large facial disk and piercing

Great Grey Owl locking in on a Vole | Kevin Thurk Photography