Great horned owl: Threat to a pig?

[Sundragons]

This is a new one for me. Recently we've had a Great Horned Owl move in and claim our neighborhood. While not super common, recently they've begun to urbanize on the outer edges of Metro Phoenix (where I'm at). I'm super thrilled because not only do I happen to love owls, but I hate pigeons, and the owl's definitely making a dent in the pigeon population.

My question though is whether or not this raptor is a threat to our smaller Juliana pig, Obi Wan Swinobi. He's about 10 weeks old and in the 4-5 pound range. and to me he seems like he might be an ideal snack for an adult GHO. Normally the pigs stay inside at night, but I got up early this morning and they hightailed it out the doggie door when I came downstairs (still fully dark). The Owl woke me in the middle of the night with it's calling, so I know it's close by this morning.

Would a piglet even be something that an owl would consider going after? I know they're naturally wary and that works to Obi's advantage, but I'd really hate to lose him to an owl...

 

[farmerjan]

Yes, a pig of that size could very well be a meal for a Great Horned. They will pick chickens off a roost and many will weigh in the 3-5 lb range. They will grab a rabbit, and have been known to pick up an unwary cat. Your best bet is to lock them in the building at night to prevent them running outside in the dark and offering a temptation.

 

[Sundragons]

Yes, a pig of that size could very well be a meal for a Great Horned. They will pick chickens off a roost and many will weigh in the 3-5 lb range. They will grab a rabbit, and have been known to pick up an unwary cat. Your best bet is to lock them in the building at night to prevent them running outside in the dark and offering a temptation.

That was my thought/concern as well. We'll crate him at night for a while until he's big enough to not be a target. Thanks for the confirmation