Montane Forest Screech-Owl
NameMontane Forest Screech-Owl
Common NameMontane Forest Screech-Owl
Scientific NameMegascops roraimae
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)47.5
Length (cm)21.5
Weight (g)125
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly mottled gray and white, with intricate vermiculations and streaks across the body, head, and wings. It features prominent ear tufts and a pale facial disc outlined by darker feathers, enhancing its camouflaged appearance.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of a series of short, rapid hoots or trills, often accelerating in pace towards the end, characteristic of many screech-owl species.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the montane forests of northern South America, specifically in parts of Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and northern Brazil.
Identifying Featuresprominent ear tufts, bright yellow eyes, mottled gray plumage, small size, nocturnal
Description
This small, nocturnal owl is characterized by its cryptic gray-brown plumage, which provides excellent camouflage against tree bark. It possesses prominent ear tufts and striking bright yellow eyes. It typically perches quietly in the forest canopy, hunting at night.
