Species Profile
Whiskered Screech-owl
Megascops trichopsis
Whiskered Screech-Owl
Quick Facts
Conservation
LCLeast ConcernLifespan
8–12 years
Length
18–23 cm
Weight
100–160 g
Wingspan
48–56 cm
Migration
Resident
Also known as: Trichopsis Screech-owl
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Appearance
The Whiskered Screech-owl is a small owl with prominent ear tufts and distinctive facial whiskers. Its plumage is mottled brown and grey, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. The eyes are yellow, and the facial disk is framed by dark edges.
Females are noticeably larger than males. Otherwise, both sexes are similar in plumage, with no significant seasonal variations. Juveniles resemble adults but may have a slightly fluffier appearance and less defined facial markings.
Identification & Characteristics
Colors
- Primary
- Brown
- 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
Whiskered Screech-owls inhabit montane forests and woodlands across a range extending from the southwestern United States through Mexico to northern Nicaragua. They show a preference for pine-oak and pine-fir forests at elevations between 600 and 2,950 meters.
In the United States, they are found in southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico, where they are year-round residents. Their presence in these areas makes them a target species for birdwatchers visiting the region.
Arizona’s mountain ranges from the Santa Catalinas south all have resident whiskered screech-owls, with good sighting spots at Bear Canyon, to the north of Tucson, Madera Canyon in the Santa Ritas, Miller Canyon in the Huachucas and Cave Creek Canyon in the Chiricahuas.
Distribution
Diet
The Whiskered Screech-owl's diet consists primarily of large insects such as moths, beetles, centipedes, and grasshoppers. They also prey on small mammals, including mice and voles, as well as small birds and reptiles, particularly further to the south.
These owls have been observed catching bats in flight, showcasing their agile hunting skills.
Behaviour
Whiskered Screech-owls are primarily nocturnal, roosting in dense foliage or tree cavities during the day. They hunt from perches, swooping down to capture prey on the ground or in mid-air.
These owls are generally solitary but may form monogamous pairs during breeding season.
Calls & Sounds
The Whiskered Screech-owl's primary call is a series of hollow, whistled notes that accelerate into a trill, often described as "hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo." This call becomes more frequent during breeding season.
They also produce a variety of other vocalizations, including barks, whistles, and screeches when alarmed or defending territory.
Nesting & Breeding
Breeding season for Whiskered Screech-owls typically begins in late winter or early spring. Males attract females with their distinctive trilling calls, and pairs form monogamous bonds.
These owls nest in natural tree cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes, occasionally using nest boxes where available. The female lays 2-4 white, round eggs directly on the wood chips at the bottom of the cavity.
Incubation lasts about 26-28 days, primarily carried out by the female while the male provides food. The young fledge after approximately 28-30 days but may remain dependent on their parents for several more weeks.
Conservation
While the Whiskered Screech-owl is currently listed as Least Concern, it faces threats from habitat loss due to deforestation in parts of its range.
Conservation efforts focus on preserving montane forest habitats and monitoring population trends across its distribution.
Birdwatching Tips
- Listen for their distinctive trill call at night, especially during breeding season
- Look for them perched motionless in dense foliage or near tree trunks
- Search for pellets or whitewash beneath potential roosting sites
- Use a flashlight to spot their reflective eyes in low-light conditions
Did You Know?
- Whiskered Screech-owls have asymmetrical ear openings, which helps them pinpoint the location of sounds with remarkable accuracy.
- Their name comes from the bristly feathers around their beak, which resemble whiskers.
- These owls can turn their heads up to 270 degrees, allowing them to survey their surroundings without moving their bodies.
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