Verreaux's Eagle-Owl

About the Verreaux's Eagle-Owl

Verreaux's eagle-owl (Ketupa lactea), also commonly known as the milky eagle owl or giant eagle owl, is a large owl of the genus Ketupa in the family Strigidae. It is the largest African owl, measuring up to 66 cm (26 in) in total length. Widespread in sub-Saharan Africa, this eagle-owl is a resident primarily of dry, wooded savanna. The species is mainly grey in colour and is distinguishable by its bright pink eyelids, a unique feature not shared with any other owl species.

Verreaux's eagle-owl is a highly opportunistic predator equipped with powerful talons. Just over half of its known diet is composed of mammals, but equal numbers of birds and even insects may be hunted locally, along with any other appropriately sized prey that is encountered. This species is considered of Least Concern by IUCN, as it occurs over a wide range and has shown some adaptability to human-based alterations and destruction of habitat, also adapting to diverse prey when a primary prey species declines in a region. Although large in size and highly territorial, the Verreaux's eagle-owl does occur at fairly low densities, and some regional declines have been reported.

The common name commemorates the French naturalist Jules Verreaux. While still in his teens, Verreaux collected the type specimen that was later described by Temminck at the Rijksmuseum van Natuurlijke Historie. Wikipedia →