Horned owl

The genus *Bubo* is a captivating group of owls that encompasses both American horned owls and Old World eagle-owls. The name *Bubo* is derived from the Latin term for the Eurasian eagle-owl. Traditionally, this genus was characterized by owls with ear tufts, but it now includes approximately a dozen species found worldwide. Among these, some of the largest owls are represented.

Currently, scientists continue to debate the precise classification of species within *Bubo*. For example, there is ongoing discussion about whether the snowy owl should be considered part of this genus. Similarly, experts are deliberating whether fish-owls, previously categorized under the genus *Ketupa*, should be included in *Bubo*.

Living members of the *Bubo* genus include snowy owls, great horned owls, lesser horned owls, Eurasian eagle-owls, Indian eagle-owls, and various other eagle-owl species. Some fish owls are also occasionally placed within this group.

The fossil record reveals that there have been numerous species of *Bubo* owls throughout history, with some fossils later reclassified into different genera.

Owls in the *Bubo* genus are predominantly nocturnal, which means they rarely interact with humans. However, there was a notable incident in the Netherlands in 2015 when an eagle-owl attacked around fifty people before being captured by a falconer. This rare event underscores the remarkable strength and power of these birds.