Northern Saw-whet Owl
NameNorthern Saw-whet Owl
Common NameNorthern Saw-whet Owl
Scientific NameAegolius acadicus
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)19.5
Weight (g)100
Plumage DetailsBrown upperparts with white streaks, particularly on the head and back. Underparts are white with broad reddish-brown streaks. The facial disc is pale with dark streaks, and it has prominent yellow eyes.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive, monotonous series of whistled 'toot-toot-toot' notes, often compared to the sound of a saw being sharpened on a whetstone.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, breeding in coniferous and mixed forests from southern Alaska and Canada south through the western mountains and northeastern United States.
Identifying Featuressmall size, large round head, bright yellow eyes, streaky brown and white plumage, no ear tufts
Description
A small, nocturnal owl with a large, round head and bright yellow eyes. It is known for its cryptic plumage, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its forest habitat, often perching motionless during the day.
