Foothill Screech-Owl
NameFoothill Screech-Owl
Common NameFoothill Screech-Owl
Scientific NameMegascops roraimae
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)48
Length (cm)21.5
Weight (g)125
Plumage DetailsPlumage is predominantly reddish-brown to rufous, heavily mottled and streaked with darker brown and black, creating a cryptic pattern. It has prominent yellow eyes, a pale bill, and small, often inconspicuous ear tufts. The underparts are paler with fine barring.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a series of short, soft hoots or a trilling call, often described as a 'purring' or 'bouncing ball' sound, which can vary geographically.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the humid montane forests and foothills of the Andes and tepuis in northern South America, including parts of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and northern Brazil.
Identifying Featuressmall size, reddish-brown cryptic plumage, bright yellow eyes, small ear tufts, nocturnal activity
Description
The Foothill Screech-Owl is a small, cryptic owl with reddish-brown plumage, often mottled with darker streaks and bars, providing excellent camouflage. It is a nocturnal predator, typically found perched quietly in dense foliage during the day, becoming active at night to hunt.
