Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl (Bubo lacteus) This is largest owl in Africa, weighing up to 2.3 kg with a wingspan of 1.5 metres. It is a fearsome nocturnal predator which capable of taking large prey. Prey items that have been recorded include a young Vervet Monkey, a Warthog piglet, and a Secretarybird. Hunting activity in daytime has also been observed on occasion. Despite its huge size, it is a strong and nimble flyer, and can even catch birds in flight. Often preys on Southern African Hedgehogs, which it skins neatly to avoid the sharp spikes. It is restricted to the well wooded savannas of South Africa as it needs large trees to roost in during the day.