RAPTORES. 107 
an evergreen near the main walk leading from the Library 
to the Chapel building. His presence would never be sus- 
pected if the Blue Jays would mind their own business in- 
stead of his. This pair rears its brood in the loft of either 
French Hall or the Chapel.* 
This little owl may be known by its conspicuous ear tufts 
and reddish or grayish mottled plumage. Its quavering 
call is often heard during the spring months. 
“Their food consists of a great variety of animal life, 
including mammals, birds, reptiles, batrachians, fish, crus- 
taceans, and insects:. i. ./ Their economic relations, there- 
fore, are of the greatest importance, particularly on account 
of the abundance of the species in many of the farming 
districts, and whoever destroys them through ignorance or 
prejudice should be severely condemned.” (Fisher.) 
144. (375.) Buso vircINIANUS (Gmel.). 159. 
Great Horned Owl. 
Synonyms: Strix virginanus. 
Hoot Owl, Cat Owl, Hooter. 
Wilson, Am. Orn., 1812, 52. 
This is the largest of our “horned” owls, and is generally 
reported as fairly common but disappearing near the large 
citics. It is rare in Lorain county, but three individuals 
betng known in the western half of the county. Its large 
size should make it a conspicuous bird. I have found it 
only when crows and hawks have routed it from its retreat. 
It inhabits the larger, heavier woods, and is hardly more 
than semi-nocturnal, sometimes feeding by day. It nests 
indifferently in open nests or hollow trees. 
It may be known at a glance by its white throat patch, 
large ear tufes, and powerful build. 
“The food of this species is of great variety; birds and 
mammals as well as reptiles, fish, crustaceans, and insects 
contribute to its fare. Among the birds most often taken 
may be mentioned all kinds of poultry (including half- 
*Since the above was written the chapel has burned. I am 
glad to report that the owl escaped unscorched. 
