Blakiston's fish owl

Ketupa blakistoni

Blakiston's fish owl is one of the largest owl species in the world, measuring around 60-75 cm in length and weighing up to 3.2 kg. It is known for its distinctive deep hoots and is primarily found in the dense, old-growth forests near rivers and lakes of eastern Russia, northern China, and Hokkaido, Japan. This species is a powerful and skilled hunter, preying mainly on fish but also taking small mammals and birds. Due to habitat loss and degradation, as well as hunting and trapping, Blakiston's fish owl is considered endangered and is the focus of conservation efforts.

Habitat: Old-growth forests near rivers and lakes