Long-tufted Screech-Owl
NameLong-tufted Screech-Owl
Common NameLong-tufted Screech-Owl
Scientific NameMegascops sanctaecatarinae
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)26.5
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsMottled brown and gray plumage with intricate vermiculations and streaks across the body, providing excellent camouflage. The underparts are paler with dark streaking, and the facial disc is well-defined with a dark border. Prominent ear tufts are present, and the eyes are a striking yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts call is typically a series of short, rapid hoots or trills, often accelerating towards the end. It can also produce a longer, more drawn-out hoot.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in southeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina, typically inhabiting subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, often associated with Araucaria trees.
Identifying Featuresprominent ear tufts, bright yellow eyes, mottled brown and gray cryptic plumage, nocturnal habits, distinctive hooting call
Description
The Long-tufted Screech-Owl is a medium-sized owl characterized by its prominent ear tufts and bright yellow eyes. Its cryptic mottled brown and gray plumage provides excellent camouflage against tree bark, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its forest habitat. This nocturnal predator primarily hunts insects and small vertebrates.
