Black-and-white Owl
NameBlack-and-white Owl
Common NameBlack-and-white Owl
Scientific NameCiccaba nigrolineata
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)68
Length (cm)38
Weight (g)425
Plumage DetailsThe head and upperparts are blackish-brown, with prominent white 'eyebrows' and a white collar. The underparts are heavily barred with black and white stripes. The flight feathers are dark with white barring, and the bill and feet are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a series of deep, resonant hoots, often described as a rapid 'hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo' or a slower 'whoo-whoo-whoo-whoo-whoo'.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from southern Mexico through Central America (Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama) and into northwestern South America (Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, and northern Peru).
Identifying FeaturesStriking black and white barred underparts, Solid blackish head with white 'eyebrows', Dark eyes, Bright yellow bill and feet, No ear tufts
Description
The Black-and-white Owl is a medium-sized, nocturnal owl with striking black and white plumage, dark eyes, and a bright yellow bill. It is a predatory bird found in humid tropical and subtropical forests, where it hunts from perches.
