Easily recognizable for his feather tufts that resemble horns, Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) is one of the most fierce and powerful of the Owls. Known as a swift and graceful Bird of Prey, Great Horned Owl is the apex predator of his territory. His acute hearing allows Him to find Prey in the dark. The flat disks of radiating feathers that surround his eyes enhance his hearing by gathering and concentrating the sound waves. As He flies in search of food, Great Horned Owl makes no sound. Hunting at night, He swoops down to snatch up unsuspecting prey with his sharp, hooked claws. Known as the Night Tiger, Great Horned Owl will even take on Eagles for food.
When Europeans first saw Great Horned Owl, in North America, they mistook Him to be their Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo), his close Relative. Later, when the French recognized his ferocity in hunting, and protecting his nest, they called Him “Le Grand Duc”, the Great Duke of the Forest. Great Horned Owl rules his forest with an iron talon. After silently making his presence known, He quietly encourages the other Animals not challenge Him. If this approach does not work, then Great Horned Owl hoots to remind everyone of impending death and misfortune.
Great Horned Owl teaches how to rule with quiet power. He doesn’t have to advertise that He is the Sovereign. In his forest, everyone knows this. Great Horned Owl simply goes about his business of hunting. He tells you not to constantly remind people that you are in charge. However, do remember to reassure your followers or they will fear you.
Great Horned Owl’s Teachings Also Include:
“Horned Owl is a bird of illumination and clarity, whose Dreaming offers rebirth and the chance to re-establish a solid foundation before everything is lost.” Copyright: “Animal Messengers” by Scott Alexander King
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Va. Carper
January 26, 2008