Long-whiskered Owlet
NameLong-whiskered Owlet
Common NameLong-whiskered Owlet
Scientific NameXenoglaux loweryi
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)47.5
Plumage DetailsOverall dark brown plumage, finely barred with rufous on the upperparts and rufous-brown with fine barring on the underparts. The face is rufous with a prominent white superciliary line that extends into long, stiff, white facial bristles. Large, striking orange eyes are a key feature, and white spots are visible on the scapulars.
Vocalization / CallA soft, low, trilling hoot, often described as a purring or trilling sound, typically given at night.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to a small, restricted area in the humid montane cloud forests of the northern Andes of Peru, specifically in the Amazonas and San Martín regions.
Identifying FeaturesExtremely small size, Prominent long white facial bristles, Large orange eyes, Rufous facial disc, White spots on scapulars, Overall brown plumage
Description
This tiny, elusive owl is characterized by its disproportionately long, stiff white facial bristles, which give it its common name. It has a rounded head, large orange eyes, and a cryptic brown plumage that helps it blend into its dense cloud forest habitat. It is primarily nocturnal, hunting insects in the undergrowth.
