Species profile
About this species
The Great Grey Owl is the world's largest owl by length, with a distinctive large facial disc marked by concentric grey rings & bright yellow eyes. Found across boreal forests of the Northern Hemisphere, it is a specialist predator of small mammals, particularly voles, which it can detect beneath deep snow using acute hearing. Despite its imposing size, it is a relatively lightweight owl, with much of its bulk made up of thick, insulating plumage suited to cold climates.
Boreal & montane coniferous forests, forest edges, & open meadows adjacent to dense woodland across northern Europe, Russia, Canada & the northern the United States.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Great Grey Owl with us in Canada, Europe & Poland.
These departures are part of our Europe & North America programme.
In the field, David Miles & Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Winter months from November to March offer the best opportunities, particularly during early morning & late afternoon when hunting activity peaks. Overcast days reduce harsh shadows & bring out the subtle grey tones in the plumage.
Use a long telephoto lens of at least 500mm to capture sharp detail without disturbing the bird, as Great Grey Owls can be surprisingly tolerant of careful observers. Position yourself low to the ground to achieve a pleasing background blur & an intimate perspective that emphasises the owl's striking facial disc. In snowy conditions, dial in positive exposure compensation of around one to two stops to prevent the camera meter from underexposing the bright white surroundings.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Great Grey Owl
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.