It has traditionally been classified as a subspecies of the great horned owl (Bubo virginianus), but is now treated as a separate species based on differences in voice and size and because of the genetic distance between the two.

The underparts are pale with narrow grey-brown bars and the breast has dark blotches.

The great horned owl is similar but larger with stronger feet and bill, broader bars on the underparts and longer ear-tufts.

[3] The deep hooting call consists of a double-note followed by a loud, vibrating note.

The bird occurs in a variety of habitats including open forest, scrubland, farmland and grassland.