Great Horned Owls are widely recognized nocturnal raptors across North and South America. These powerful birds possess an impressive array of vocal abilities, which they use to communicate across their diverse habitats. Among their many sounds, the screech stands out as a distinct vocalization, often heard echoing through the night. Understanding this particular call helps in deciphering the complex language of these adaptable predators.
Describing the Screech
The screech of a Great Horned Owl is a piercing, high-pitched sound that can sometimes be drawn out. This vocalization can be slurred either upwards or downwards in pitch, giving it a somewhat squeaky quality. Unlike their more familiar deep hoots, the screech is a sharper and more urgent sound, distinct in its auditory characteristics.
Purposes of the Screech
Territorial Defense
Great Horned Owls employ their screech for several specific communication purposes. This vocalization can serve as a declaration of presence, particularly when an owl seeks to warn off potential intruders from its territory. During the breeding season, when competition for resources and mates is heightened, screeches help assert dominance and signal that an area is occupied.
Alarm and Warning
The screech also functions as an alarm or warning call when an owl senses danger to itself, its nest, or its offspring. This defensive vocalization can be accompanied by aggressive behaviors, aiming to protect the vulnerable young.
Family Communication
Additionally, screeches are a common form of communication within the owl family unit, especially between young owlets and their parents. Young Great Horned Owls frequently produce piercing screeches or screams to indicate hunger and solicit food from adults.
Great Horned Owl Vocalizations Beyond the Screech
While the screech serves specific functions, it represents only a portion of the Great Horned Owl’s varied vocal repertoire. Their most widely recognized sound is the deep, resonant hoot, which typically follows a stuttering rhythm like “hoo-h’HOO-hoo-hoo.” This iconic hoot is primarily used for establishing territorial boundaries, attracting mates, and reinforcing pair bonds. Male hoots are generally deeper in pitch than those of females, and mated pairs often engage in duets to strengthen their connection and advertise their presence.
Other Vocalizations
Other sounds include hisses, used as a defensive warning, sometimes resembling a rattlesnake. Bill clacking or snapping is another non-vocal sound used in defensive displays, signaling agitation or a warning. Adult owls also produce barks when responding to immediate dangers, a higher-pitched sound used for alerting others to threats.