Pacific Screech-Owl
NamePacific Screech-Owl
Common NamePacific Screech-Owl
Scientific NameMegascops kennicottii
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)58
Length (cm)23.5
Weight (g)185
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is typically gray-brown, heavily mottled and streaked with darker brown and black, creating a bark-like pattern. It features a distinct facial disc outlined in black, bright yellow eyes, and prominent ear tufts. The undersides are paler with vertical streaking and subtle horizontal barring.
Vocalization / CallIts primary call is a series of accelerating hoots, often described as a 'bouncing ball' sound, starting slowly and speeding up. It also produces a single, drawn-out whistle.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the Pacific coast of North America, from southeastern Alaska south through British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, California, and into Baja California, extending eastward into parts of Arizona and New Mexico.
Identifying FeaturesProminent ear tufts, Bright yellow eyes, Small size, Cryptic gray-brown plumage with streaking, Accelerating 'bouncing ball' hooting call
Description
This small, stocky owl is characterized by its prominent ear tufts and bright yellow eyes. Its highly cryptic gray-brown plumage provides excellent camouflage, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its woodland and riparian habitats where it hunts nocturnally.
