Chocó Screech-Owl
NameChocó Screech-Owl
Common NameChocó Screech-Owl
Scientific NameMegascops centralis
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)21.5
Weight (g)105
Plumage DetailsOverall mottled brown and grey plumage with fine dark streaking and barring. Underparts are paler with prominent dark streaks. White markings are visible on the scapulars, and the facial disc is indistinct. The eyes are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of short, rapid hoots or trills, often accelerating towards the end, sometimes described as a 'bouncing ball' or 'purring' call.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Chocó biogeographic region, found in western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Bright yellow eyes, Mottled brown and grey plumage, Indistinct ear tufts, Restricted range in the Chocó region
Description
This small, nocturnal owl is characterized by its cryptic mottled brown and grey plumage, which provides excellent camouflage in its forest habitat. It is an elusive species, primarily active at night, hunting insects and small vertebrates.
