i66 
0 IVLS. 
species found in Western Europe, the best known of ail is the great eagle-owl 
{Bubo ignavus), of which specimens are occasionally taken in Britain. This 
splendid bird, of which the total length may reach 28 inches, belongs to a group of 
two or three species characterised by the toes being so thickly feathered that even 
EAGLE OWL SEIZING ITS PREY 
their last joints are concealed. It has a black beak and bright orange iris; while 
the plumage is a beautiful blending of various shades of brown. The ear-tufts 
include a few dark feathers, with light bars on the inner webs; the hind-neck and 
back are mottled dark and reddish brown, with the dark tint occupying the middle 
