Spectacled Owl

The Spectacled Owl, Pulsatrix perspicillata, is a large, tropical owl with a commanding presence. It boasts blackish-brown upperparts, a head and upper breast of similar hue, and striking white facial markings. The underparts range from whitish to yellowish-ochre, providing a stark contrast to the darker tones above. This species is the only Pulsatrix with yellow eyes, and it has a pale beak. Juveniles are predominantly white, save for a chocolate brown facial disc, making them quite distinctive.

Identification Tips

Adult Spectacled Owls are unmistakable within their range, save for confusion with other Pulsatrix species. They exhibit a size range of 41 to 52.3 cm in length, with males weighing between 453 to 1,075 g and females slightly heavier at 680 to 1,250 g. The subspecies can be differentiated by variations in the darkness of their plumage and the composition of the breast band.

Habitat

This species is primarily associated with tropical rainforests, thriving in dense, old-growth areas. They are also known to venture into secondary habitats, such as forest edges, and occasionally into dry forests, treed savanna plains, plantations, and semi-open areas with trees.

Distribution

The Spectacled Owl's range extends from southern Mexico and Trinidad, through Central America, down to southern Brazil, Paraguay, and northwestern Argentina. It is a resident breeder throughout this extensive neotropical range.

Behaviour

Nocturnal and solitary, the Spectacled Owl is a dominant predator, often hunting from a perch and pouncing on unsuspecting prey. It feeds on a variety of mammals, insects, and other small animals, with a particular fondness for nocturnally active creatures.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Spectacled Owl includes guttural knocking or tapping sounds that decrease in pitch but increase in pace. Males primarily vocalize to proclaim territory, while females also sing with a higher pitch. Duets between pairs are not uncommon. Additionally, females emit a hawk-like scream, and young owls have a distinctive begging call.

Breeding

Breeding season in Costa Rica occurs during the dry season or at the onset of the wet season. Spectacled Owls typically nest in tree cavities, laying 1-2 eggs that are incubated for about 5 weeks. Chicks are dependent on their parents for several months post-fledging.

Similar Species

The Spectacled Owl can be confused with the Band-bellied Owl and the Tawny-browed Owl, but can be distinguished by size, eye color, and plumage details. Each species also has a unique song.

Diet and Feeding

A versatile predator, the Spectacled Owl's diet includes a wide range of mammals, invertebrates, and occasionally other birds. It is known to take prey that is nocturnally active, including rodents, bats, and even small monkeys.

Conservation Status

The Spectacled Owl is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, thanks to its large range and continued presence in much of its habitat. However, it is susceptible to declines in areas where human activities reduce prey populations and degrade habitats.