Eurasian Eagle Owl has already taken down the even bigger Blakiston’s Fish Owl, and the tiny but adorable Flammulated Owl. Now it’s got its eyes on a medium sized one: the Morepork! This robust and mighty owl is hard not to like. It’s got much of the same great qualities of the Great Horned: massive, well patterned body, crushing talons rivaling the largest flighted birds, and a wonderful hoot.

Morepork has thus far only taken on other Southern Hemisphere owls, having stopped Australia’s Barking Owl and Africa’s Milky Eagle Owl. Representing the island nation of New Zealand and the fandom of Discworld, Morepork has had a great fan base this year. It even picked up some vegan support, running on it’s meatless Maori name, Ruru. Will this silly little hawk owl be able to deal with the Eagle Owl?

Who will be the second banner owl and our next semi-finalist? Upvote your choice below!

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