Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl
NameFerruginous Pygmy-Owl
Common NameFerruginous Pygmy-Owl
Scientific NameGlaucidium brasilianum
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)41.5
Length (cm)16.5
Weight (g)62.5
Plumage DetailsPlumage is typically rufous-brown to grayish-brown on the upperparts, with heavily streaked white underparts. It has prominent white eyebrows, bright yellow eyes, and distinctive black spots bordered with white on the nape that resemble 'false eyes'.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a series of monotonous, whistled hoots, often described as 'hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo', which can be quite rapid and repetitive.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from the southwestern United States (southern Arizona and Texas) south through Mexico, Central America, and widely across South America, reaching as far south as Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Diurnal activity, False eyes on nape, Streaked underparts, Yellow eyes, Short tail
Description
This small, diurnal owl is characterized by its compact body and relatively short tail. It is an active predator, often seen hunting during the day from a prominent perch.
