Stygian Owl

The Stygian owl, Asio stygius, is a medium-sized bird of prey, cloaked in very dark plumage that befits its name, derived from the River Styx of Greek mythology. This nocturnal hunter measures 38 to 46 cm in length and tips the scales at 400 to 675 grams. Both male and female share a similar somber appearance, with a blackish face framed by a pale border and a whitish forehead. Its head is adorned with elongated dark feathers that resemble ears, and its upperparts are streaked and barred with buff. The underparts present a dingy buff with a pattern of dark brown or blackish bars and streaks. The eyes of the Stygian owl can reflect a crimson hue under certain lighting, while its bill ranges from blue-black to blackish, and its feet are a dark grayish or brownish pink.

Identification Tips

To identify the Stygian owl, look for its distinctive blackish face with pale borders and a whitish forehead. The long ear-like feathers on the head are also a key feature. The yellow shades of the eyes, along with the barred and streaked plumage, help distinguish it from other owl species.

Habitat

The Stygian owl is quite adaptable, inhabiting a range of landscapes from sea level to high elevations of up to 3,000 meters. Its preferred habitats are generally open areas, including montane pine, pine-oak, cloud forests, thorn scrub, cerrado, pine plantations, and even urban parks.

Distribution

This owl is found across a broad swath of the Americas, from Mexico through parts of Central America, the Caribbean islands of Cuba and Hispaniola, and into South America, where it is present in 10 countries. It has also been recorded as a vagrant in Texas, Florida, and Trinidad.

Behaviour

The Stygian owl is a resident species, meaning it does not typically migrate. It is wholly nocturnal, hunting under the cover of darkness.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Stygian owl includes a deep, emphatic "woof" or "wupf," a low and loud "hu" or "hu-hu," and a muffled "boo" hoot. Females may also emit a short, screamed "rre-ehhr" or "mehrr" when communicating with males, as well as a catlike "miah."

Breeding

Details on the breeding habits of the Stygian owl are scarce. However, it is known that breeding seasons vary by location, and males perform a wing-clapping display during flight. Nesting can occur on the ground or in trees, often reusing the nests of other species, and typically involves laying two or three eggs.

Similar Species

Due to its unique appearance and vocalizations, the Stygian owl has few similar species within its range. However, careful observation of its distinctive features is necessary for accurate identification.

Diet and Feeding

The Stygian owl's diet is primarily avian, preying on birds of various sizes, often captured while roosting at night. It also consumes bats, which are less commonly preyed upon by other owls, as well as other mammals, frogs, and insects. Notably, rodents seem to be absent from its diet.

Conservation Status

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the Stygian owl as Least Concern. It boasts a vast range, though the exact population size is unknown and suspected to be in decline. No immediate threats have been pinpointed for this species.