A Cape Eagle Owl (Bubo capensis) photographed in Hermanus, South Africa. There is red eyeshine from the use of flash.
The Cape eagle-owl (Bubo capensis) is a species of owl in the Strigidae family. It is one several large species of the eagle-owl genus, Bubo. The Cape eagle-owl is found in a wide variety of habitats, usually mountainous regions and hilly areas with rocks. They are found from sea-level up to the snow line. These owls may also wander into human settlements or even towns, often specifically to predate abundant rock doves. This is a large owl, though intermediate in size among other large Bubo owls. Its total length ranges from 46 to 61 cm (18 to 24 in). Males weigh from 905 to 1,387 g ( to lb) while the larger females range from 1,240 to 1,800 g ( to lb). The wing chord measures – cm (– in) while the tail measures – cm (– in). This owl is dark brown above with prominent ear-tufts and yellow or yellowish-orange eyes. It is dark below with the sides of the breast being blotchy brown and the paler chest overlaid with white, black and tawny-fulvous markings, variously. The facial disc is fulvous-brown, with a distinct black or dark brown frame that becomes broader towards the neck. Both the tail and wing feathers are barred with light and dark brown. The toes and tarsi are densely feathered, with the little visible skin being brown above and yellowish below the feet.
Size: 2596px × 3552px
Location: Hermanus, South Africa
Photo credit: © Derek Gale / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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