Tropical Screech Owl

The tropical screech owl, Megascops choliba, is a diminutive and polymorphic member of the Strigidae family. Exhibiting a palette that ranges from grey-brown to rufous, this owl is adorned with a blackish rim around its facial disk and piercing yellow irises. Its ventral side is a lighter shade, patterned with a distinctive black herringbone design. The various subspecies show a spectrum of colour intensity and black markings on their plumage. Adults measure between 21 to 23 centimetres in length and weigh 97 to 160 grams.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the tropical screech owl, look for its characteristic blackish facial edge and yellow eyes, which stand out against its grey-brown or rufous plumage. The unique black herringbone pattern on its underside is also a key feature. Size-wise, it is relatively small, so its presence may be more easily detected by its vocalizations than by sight.

Habitat

This species thrives in a variety of partially to mostly open landscapes, including secondary forests, open woodlands, coffee plantations, and residential areas. It is also found along the edges of terra firme and várzea forests. The subspecies M. c. duidae is an exception, favouring the dense forest and bamboo scrub.

Distribution

The tropical screech owl is a common resident throughout its range, which extends from Costa Rica and Panama, through South America to Trinidad and Tobago, and almost entirely east of the Andes. It is not found in the southernmost parts of the continent. The nine recognized subspecies are distributed across various regions, from Brazil to Uruguay and from Bolivia to Argentina.

Behaviour

Nocturnal by nature, the tropical screech owl hunts from a low perch, swooping down to capture prey on the ground, from branches, or mid-flight. It is known for its agility and silent flight, which aid in its predatory pursuits.

Song & calls

The primary song of the tropical screech owl is a short, purring trill followed by two clear, accentuated notes. The female's song is a higher-pitched version of the male's. During courtship, a bubbling "bububúbubu" can be heard. Additionally, they emit a variety of cackles and longer hooting notes.

Breeding

The breeding season for the tropical screech owl seems to commence in August south of the Equator. They nest in natural cavities, old woodpecker holes, and nest boxes, with clutch sizes ranging from one to six eggs. Adults are known to fiercely defend their nests, even against humans.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the tropical screech owl consists of large arthropods and small vertebrates. This includes worms, scorpions, spiders, a variety of insects, frogs, other amphibians, small reptiles, birds, bats, and rodents. It is an opportunistic feeder, taking advantage of the prey available in its habitat.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the tropical screech owl as Least Concern. It is common across its extensive range, and its population may even benefit from deforestation, which creates the more open habitats it prefers.