Eurasian Eagle-Owl Chick Hatches at National Aviary

Pittsburgh, PA – March 22, 2024 – A Eurasian Eagle-Owl, one of the largest owl species in the world, has hatched at the National Aviary. The chick, which hatched on March 18, is growing quickly and thriving under the care of Aviary experts. Guests can get a look into the chick’s care in the Aviary’s Avian Care Center window in The Charity Randall Foundation Eagle.

The Eurasian Eagle-Owl chick weighed 55 grams when it hatched (roughly the size of a small lime). Eagle-Owl chicks grow rapidly, however, and by eight weeks of age, the chick will be considered fully grown, weighing as much as nine pounds and possessing a wingspan reaching up to six-and-a-half feet. There is no way to visually distinguish between male and female Eurasian Eagle-Owls, so a DNA feather test will be performed to determine the chick’s sex. The owlet’s parents, X (named after X the Owl from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood) and Dumbledore, have hatched 10 chicks at the National Aviary previously.

“Each hatching is unique, and every chick has its own needs, especially during chick hood, which can be a very delicate time. Our goal is always to provide the optimal conditions for every bird to thrive at the National Aviary, and this adorable chick is doing extremely well in our Avian Care Center, which is visible to guests,” says Cathy Schlott, Director of Animal Programs and Experiences for the National Aviary. “Guests will be able to watch this chick grow and develop and learn about the incredible adaptations of Eurasian Eagle-Owls and the importance of protecting raptors and their habitats.”

https://www.aviary.org/news/eurasian-eagle-owl-chick-hatches-at-national-aviary/