ID Keys: Grayish overall (although a reddish morph also exists),
streaks on underparts, orangish-yellow eyes. Compared to Western Screech Owl --> Smaller size, smaller feet, paler bill
The
Whiskered Screech Owl is a small, relatively common owl of Mexico and
Central America, with a range that just reaches the United States in far
southern Arizona and New Mexico. They share habitat with the
very similar Western Screech-Owl, although the Western Screech-Owl has a
much bigger U.S. Range, and has some subtle identification differences
including a smaller size and a different voice.
Habitat
Whiskered Screech-Owls are found in
forested habitats, typically those with fairly dense tree cover. In
their small U.S. range, they are often found in wooded canyons. They can be
found at relatively high elevations, if appropriate wooded habitat is
available.
Diet
Feeds on a variety of small creatures, but
most often feeds on large insects. Also will feed on scorpions, small
lizards, and small rodents.
Behavior
Nocturnal, hunting from dusk through the
nighttime hours. They hunt by observing from a perch and flying out to snag
prey with their talons when prey is spotted. They can also sometimes
capture insects in flight, either capturing slow-moving flying insects, or
briefly hovering to glean insects from plants.
Nesting
The nest of a Whiskered Screech-Owl is in
a tree cavity, often in an old woodpecker hole, but they will also use
natural cavities if available. Males vigorously defend nesting
territories from other Whiskered Screech-Owls. The female does most of
the incubation of the eggs, but both parents help to rear the young.
Song
Song of the Whiskered Screech-Owl is a
series of notes, usually four to eight, clearly separated with higher tones
in the middle. They also have a soft whistled cooing.
Migration
Considered a permanent resident
throughout their range. .
