Great horned owl

The Great Horned Owl, Bubo virginianus, is a native of the Americas, mottled grey-brown above with fine dark grey horizontal banding below.  Ear tufts set wide apart and yellow eyes.  This owl hunts rabbits, rodents, and birds, including crows, ducks and other owls.  Occasionally skunks.  Found in all habitat with trees and cliffs.
It is unlawful to have such birds in your possession.  Report helpless birds to State Wildlife Commissions immediately.

I have only once ever seen an owl though I heard them frequently when we lived beside woodland.  When I did see one, it was very close because it flew into the house.  It was a magnificent bird.  I opened the windows, turned off the light, and it glided away as silently as it arrived.  I would have thought it was a dream but the rest of the family was there - as amazed as I was.