Great Horned Owl
Bubo
virginianus
Widespread but uncommon in most habitats west of Cascade crest, although fairly common locally in lowlands away from densely developed urban areas. Common in open and semi-open habitats below and including ponderosa pine zone in Kittitas County, with highest densities from agriculture edge near Ellensburg. Few BBA records close to crest on either side, and absent from treeless areas at highest elevations. Does not build own nest; most often appropriates used nests from Red-tailed Hawks or occasionally Great Blue Herons. True distribution probably more extensive than indicated due to limited nocturnal survey efforts.
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