Bird

Verreauxs Eagle-Owl Sightings

Bubo lacteus

Least ConcernPredatorFound in 4 parks

Want to know where and when to find Verreauxs Eagle-Owl? opspoor shows recent sightings across South Africa's parks and when each species is usually active.

Where to see Verreauxs Eagle-Owl in South Africa

About the Verreauxs Eagle-Owl

Verreaux's eagle-owl is Africa's largest owl and a powerful nocturnal predator of woodland, savanna and rocky habitats. It has an imposing large head, dark eyes, prominent ear tufts and mostly grey, brown and white plumage that provides camouflage during the day. It hunts a wide variety of prey including mammals, birds, reptiles, frogs and large insects. It is generally territorial and often roosts during daylight in large trees, rocky shelters or dense vegetation.

How to identify the Verreauxs Eagle-Owl

Very large owl with prominent ear tufts, enormous dark eyes and a broad facial disc. Plumage is generally mottled grey, brown and buff, providing excellent camouflage. Often identified by its massive size and deep, powerful call.

Did you know?

Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl is Africa’s largest owl and is powerful enough to prey on animals such as hedgehogs, small antelope and other relatively large mammals.

Also known as: Reuse Ooruil, Eagle Owl, Giant Eagle-Owl

Planning a safari? Pick a park above to see when and where to look for Verreauxs Eagle-Owl, and log your own sightings in opspoor, even with no signal.