Powerful Owl

1. Australia’s largest owl, with dark upperparts, white barring, and bold V-shaped chevrons on the underparts

2. Massive yellow feet and talons, often seen clutching prey while roosting during the day

3. Deep, far-carrying double-hoot "woo-hoo" call, especially at dusk and dawn

Powerful Owls are apex predators, feeding mainly on medium to large arboreal mammals like Common Ringtail Possums and Greater Gliders, but also taking roosting birds and occasionally ground-dwelling animals such as rabbits. They hunt by swooping from perches and gripping prey with their powerful feet. Pairs mate for life and defend large territories year-round. Breeding occurs mainly from April to September, with eggs laid in vertical hollows of large old trees, often 10–30 meters above ground. The male prepares the nest and supplies food, while the female incubates and broods the young. Juveniles remain with their parents for several months, sometimes over a year.

Powerful Owls are found in open forests, woodlands, and sheltered gullies with dense understory, especially near watercourses. They require old-growth trees with large hollows for nesting, making mature forests crucial to their survival. While usually associated with native forests, they are increasingly found in suburban areas with sufficient tree cover and abundant prey, such as possums. During the day, they roost in dense foliage.