Species Profile
Eastern Screech-owl
Megascops asio
Eastern Screech-Owl
Quick Facts
Conservation
LCLeast ConcernLifespan
8–10 years
Length
16–25 cm
Weight
121–244 g
Wingspan
46–61 cm
Migration
Resident
Also known as: Screech Owl
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Appearance
The Eastern Screech-owl is a small owl with prominent ear tufts and large yellow eyes. It occurs in two distinct color morphs: grey and rufous-red. Both morphs have complex patterns of streaks and bands that provide excellent camouflage against tree bark.
Adults typically measure 16-25 cm in length. There is no significant difference in appearance between males and females, though females are slightly larger on average.
Identification & Characteristics
Colors
- Primary
- Grey
- Secondary
- White
- Beak
- Grey
- Legs
- Grey
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Eastern Screech-owls are found throughout eastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to the Rocky Mountains. They inhabit various wooded environments, including deciduous and mixed forests, woodlots, and suburban areas with mature trees.
These owls are non-migratory and maintain year-round territories. They are particularly common in the eastern United States, adapting well to human-altered landscapes with sufficient tree cover.
Distribution
Diet
Eastern Screech-owls are opportunistic predators with a diverse diet. They primarily feed on small mammals such as mice and voles but also consume insects, small birds, amphibians, and reptiles. These owls hunt from perches, swooping down to capture prey with their sharp talons.
Behaviour
Eastern Screech-owls are primarily nocturnal, roosting in tree cavities or dense foliage during the day. They are highly territorial and will vigorously defend their nesting areas.
These owls often perch motionless, relying on their camouflage to avoid detection and swoop silently when hunting prey.
Calls & Sounds
The Eastern Screech-owl's most recognizable call is a descending tremolo whistle, often described as a 'whinny.' They also produce a monotonous trill, typically used for territorial defense and pair bonding.
Despite their name, these owls do not actually screech; their vocalizations are more melodious.
Nesting & Breeding
Eastern Screech-owls typically form monogamous pairs and breed once per year. The breeding season usually begins in late winter or early spring, with courtship involving mutual calling and food sharing.
These owls are cavity nesters, utilizing natural tree hollows, old woodpecker holes, or artificial nest boxes. Females lay 2-6 white eggs, which are incubated for about 26 days.
Both parents care for the young, with the male providing food while the female broods. Owlets fledge at around four weeks old but remain dependent on their parents for several more weeks.
Conservation
While the Eastern Screech-owl is currently listed as Least Concern, it faces threats from habitat loss due to urbanization and deforestation.
Conservation efforts focus on preserving woodland habitats and providing nest boxes in urban and suburban areas to support breeding populations.
Birdwatching Tips
- Listen for their distinctive trill call at night, especially during the breeding season
- Check tree cavities and dense foliage during the day for roosting owls
- Look for pellets or whitewash beneath potential roosting sites
- Use a flashlight at night to spot their reflective eyes
Did You Know?
- Eastern Screech-owls can lower their body temperature to conserve energy during cold weather.
- They have asymmetrical ear openings, which helps them pinpoint the location of sounds.
- These owls sometimes cache surplus food in tree cavities for later consumption.
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