Pacific Screech Owl

The Pacific screech owl, Megascops cooperi, is a medium-sized owl with a notable presence. It is adorned with ear tufts that stand prominently above its bright yellow eyes. The plumage is a subtle blend of pale tawny gray, adorned with dusky and black vermiculation, giving it a mottled appearance that is both cryptic and charming.

Identification Tips

To identify the Pacific screech owl, look for its pale gray facial disc framed by a contrasting white and blackish border. The upperparts share this pale tawny gray coloration, while the underparts are a lighter off-white with a distinctive darker herringbone pattern. When the wings are closed, two pale lines are visible. The subspecies M. c. lambi is slightly smaller and has additional dark bars and streaks on the crown.

Habitat

This owl favors a diverse array of environments, from the swamp forests and mangroves to arid woodlands and scrublands. It is also found in open country dotted with trees and cacti, as well as secondary forests. Its adaptability to different habitats is quite remarkable.

Distribution

The Pacific screech owl's range extends from the Pacific slope of Oaxaca, Mexico, through Central America, reaching as far south as northwestern Costa Rica. It is also present on the upper Caribbean slope in the southern part of its range.

Behaviour

A nocturnal and crepuscular hunter, the Pacific screech owl employs a sit-and-wait strategy from low perches, pouncing or sallying forth to capture its prey. It is a solitary creature, shrouded in the mystery of the night.

Song & calls

The vocalizations of the Pacific screech owl are unique and serve as a reliable identification tool. The nominate subspecies emits a "prrr pu-pu-PU-PU-PU-pu-pu" song, while M. c. lambi produces a "staccato croarrr-gogogogogogok". Both subspecies also have secondary songs that add to their nocturnal symphony.

Breeding

Details on the breeding habits of the Pacific screech owl are scarce. However, it is believed to nest during the dry season, laying a clutch of three to four eggs in tree cavities, often repurposing old woodpecker holes.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Pacific screech owl is predominantly large insects, but it also includes other arthropods such as scorpions, and occasionally small vertebrates like birds and flying squirrels. Its hunting technique is both efficient and effective in the dim light of dusk and dawn.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Pacific screech owl as Least Concern, with an estimated population exceeding 50,000 mature individuals. However, there is a belief that the population may be on a downward trend, which warrants monitoring.