• East view from Crissy Field overlook with old Coast Guard station on left and city on right

    Presidio of San Francisco

    California

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  • CAUTION: Post Storm Damage to Coastal Trail

    The Presidio Coastal Trail segment just north of the Pacific Overlook and adjacent to Lincoln Blvd remains CLOSED indefinitely. We have posted signage to alert bicyclists and hikers and with information for safe trail alternatives. More »

Great Horned Owl

(Bubo virginianus)
 
Great Horned Owl
A Great Horned Owl chick looks down from a eucalyptus tree in the Main Post area.
© Alan Hopkins 2002
 

Natural History: The Great Horned Owl is a nocturnal hunter that preys on a variety of things ranging from birds and small mammals to lower vertebrates and insects. This owl nests in trees in cavities and abandon nests and occassionally on the ground. Its breeding season runs from February through July.

General Distribution: This species is found throughout the Presidio, particularly in forested areas, and uses the Presidio for breeding.

Frequency: The Great Horned Owl is common in the Presidio year-round.

Identifying Characteristics: This large owl is characterized by ear tufts and a white throat.

Presidio Birds main page

Did You Know?

The San Francisco National Cemetery at the Presidio

The National Cemeteries Act was based on the principles articulated by President Lincoln in his Gettysburg Address--"that these dead shall not have died in vain."  Passed by Congress in 1863, the law established thirteen cemeteries to inter veterans of the Armed Forces and their families.