Bubo virginianus is a widely distributed owl species found throughout much of North and South America. It inhabits a wide variety of ecosystems, including forests, deserts, grasslands, wetlands, and even urban and suburban areas. This adaptability has allowed the species to establish itself well beyond pristine natural environments, often nesting in city parks, golf courses, and roadside trees. It prefers wooded habitats for roosting and open areas for hunting but shows flexibility in nesting sites, using cliffs, buildings, or abandoned nests built by other birds. Estimates suggest a global population in the millions, and it is classified as a species of Least Concern.

Bubo virginianus is recognized for its prominent feather tufts that resemble ears, large orange-yellow eyes, and heavily barred plumage in mottled shades of brown, gray, and white. It measures approximately 18 to 25 inches in length, with a wingspan of up to 60 inches. It is primarily nocturnal and uses its acute hearing and silent flight to locate prey. It is an opportunistic predator, feeding on small mammals such as rabbits, squirrels, and skunks, as well as birds, reptiles, and amphibians. It has been observed to hunt porcupines and even domesticated cats or dogs in areas near human settlements. One unusual behavior is its use of vocal duets, with pairs calling to each other using distinct male and female hoots. Its deep, rhythmic call can be heard over long distances, especially in the early evening and pre-dawn hours. The species maintains year-round territories, and breeding pairs may stay together across multiple seasons.